I thought 2009 would be a great year for the Swan Valley and those that know hailed 2009 as one of WA’s finest.
We, in the Swan Valley, in common with the rest of the state had quite mild growing conditions, the heat didn’t hit us until post Christmas, and then it was humid heat, which is better for the vines that dry heat (but harder for us West Australians to cope with, as people). “Reds were sensational and the whites not far behind” John Griffiths: President of WA Wine Industry
Also winter 2008 was nice and wet, this coupled with the river breaking its banks, and flowing through the vineyard for a couple of weeks, meant that we started with properly drenched soil… we haven’t had that for a few years!
We picked for the Sparkling Chardonnay base on Tuesday 27 Jan, the Verdelho was picked Tuesday 3rd and Thursday 5th February. The fruit to go into the Unwooded Chardonnay was picked on Tuesday 10th and Thursday 12th February.
The red grapes ripened up steadily and were picked during March. The juice showed great colour and rich, full fruit flavours, it looks as though 2009 might be the year for Swan Valley Reds, even better than 2008!