Good winter rainfalls, followed by ideal spring and summer conditions created strong, healthy canopies in balance with the slightly above average yields. The whites ripened early with intense fruit flavours and balanced acidity. Harvesting commenced in mid February and was completed over the following 10 days.

The harvest of reds started with Shiraz in late February, and powerful mid-palate fruit was immediately evident. An unprecedented 15 consecutive days of temperatures above 35°C began on March 3rd, precipitating the race to bring in the fruit, testing the mettle of men and machinery.

This was a vintage of contrast, with the early fruit being outstanding in richness and concentration, whilst the later, heat affected fruit was left to shrivel on the vine. 2008 will be remembered as a unique vintage that reminds us that on nature’s stage we are merely players.