2007 Vintage commenced on the same date as last year on the 28th February.  Tasmania experienced a cold but dry winter followed by a very dry spring.  Spring also presented challenges with frosts and snow at sea level.  Many regions were adversely affected by frosts but our vineyard experienced no damage this is due to our vineyard’s excellent location on the inside bend of the Derwent River, effectively surrounding us with running water.  This geographic location also gives the site gravelly soils as a result of erosion and river deposits from millions of years in the past.  These soils have the effect of trapping heat in the vineyard.  The gentle elevation (river bank) of the vineyard and the Northern aspect has the effect of increasing the heat accumulation as well as providing good air drainage down the rows to the water.

Budburst occurred at the same time as last year.  The dry spring affected flowering, resulting in fewer and smaller bunches of quite tiny berries, which hardly sounds promising but, in fact, has turned out to be the opposite. Flavour ripeness came early and lower yields of smaller berries, has meant better colour and good flavour concentration and intensity at lower sugar levels.  That is, better balanced wines which is good news considering the erratic conditions.

Overall yield was down about 20% from usual.  Warm, dry weather continued throughout summer with no rain except for one downpour over two days.  Disease pressure was low despite some humid weather in February.

Harvest commenced with Pinot Noir, (clone 114 that is an early ripener) picked at 10.6 degrees beaume (for sparkling base).  We enjoyed a break for about 2 weeks after sparkling harvest and then vintage proceeded quickly from there then on, grapes coming in excellent condition with good flavours and higher than usual acidities.  In the winery the 2007 vintage at this early stage is defined by elegant whites and reds with good acid and tannin.  After the great 2005 and 2006 is shaping up to be promising vintage.