Adelaide Hills – 1997

A wet winter with average rainfall. A mild, dry spring leading to excellent growth, good set and vigour. Late September spring frosts caused significant damage with losses of up to 30%. One of the hottest summers on record with the hottest two-week period in February recorded since 1910. Despite rain during summer causing some splitting and mildew, it was a godsend to the old dry-grown vines beginning to feel the lack of water. A mild finish to the season ensured excellent ripening conditions and accumulation of colour and flavour.