McLaren Vale | 2008

Rainfall in late December and late January topped up soil moisture to retain canopy health. Mid-January the temperatures in McLaren Vale were in the 20° C range most days and these mild conditions persisted into the start of March. Cool and dry conditions during berry ripening were conducive to excellent flavour, colour and phenolic development.

Vintage started in the first week of February, slightly earlier than average, with much of the premium fruit off the vine with high natural acid due to the cool early summer and healthy canopies. The heatwave, which saw a record run of 15 days over 35° C, interrupted perfect vintage conditions in McLaren Vale, causing the quickest harvest in the region’s history. Whilst there were challenges with the sudden ripening, overall 2008 will be a great year for quality.