The timing of our 2023 harvest was similar to 2022, but a touch later than average, and our average of the maximum temperatures for the 4 crucial months leading up to and during harvest was 25.18 centigrade, higher than our long-term average of 24.63 centigrade and higher than 2022.
While ripening was slow and extended, harvest was fortunately complete before the first rains in early March.
The preceding Winter was our wettest in 24 years and was followed by a slightly wetter than average bud break to veraison period, but with an unusually (and usefully) dry September facilitating healthy, even budding.
Apart from cold, wet, early season clay-rich soils inhibiting shoot growth, and a few late season heat spikes creating the potential for sunburn, the vintage proceeded smoothly and delivered beautiful, pure, generously textured wines.
Yields, as always, were low, with Chardonnay coming in at 3,87t/ha (24hl/ha) and Pinot noir at 2,49t/ha (16,18hl/ha).
