Vintage Information

2001 Vintage Report - Barossa Valley

The Barossa Valley had its first wet winter for a number of seasons. This allowed for strong cover crop growth and excellent levels of organic matter being introduced into the soil. Cool wet conditions prevailed at budburst causing some isolated cases of spring fever in Shiraz, which induced potassium deficiency. Cabernet Sauvignon was also affected with uneven budburst and slow early season growth.

Spring conditions were almost ideal for growing grapes in this traditional region. Rainfall was moderate to high, allowing for strong vegetative growth and inflorescence development. The warm dry conditions that occurred during flowering aided in fruit set. Set was good in most varieties.

Summer was a completely different story, with very hot dry conditions prevailing. Irrigation levels were dramatically increased as the vines started to show signs of severe stress. During the peak of the hot spells, vines were losing water quicker than they could take it up, this leading to heavy leaf discolouration and defoliation. A combination of above average temperatures and a long, dry maturation period allowed for red varieties to reach full maturity. The long and uninterrupted ripening aided in the development of strong varietal flavours and moderate tannins that have been recognised this season. Shiraz was the standout variety with the majority of the wines exhibiting strong berry flavours in combination with an elegant yet well-balanced palate. Cabernet Sauvignon was not far behind the Shiraz, with some exceptional parcels of fruit.