In the Clare Valley, rainfall was below average for the season, but it was not the amount that had the biggest impact; it was the timing. Mother Nature saw fit to dole out just the right amount of water at just the right time for maximum positive impact on the vine’s health and importantly, the quality of the fruit produced. In fact, this was just one of the factors at play when it comes to the vintage being lauded as one of the greats. Firstly, the vines were ‘stress free’ heading into the winter period, creating the potential for a superior crop. Secondly, conditions were ideal during flowering and then lastly, the threat of frost did not eventuate. All these conditions combined to create what called be described as ‘the perfect storm’ for an excellent vintage. The Chardonnay looked particularly outstanding with amazing flavour and acid structure.
In the Adelaide Hills, a warm dry spring resulted in an early start to the 2016 season with cold conditions in August and September delaying budburst slightly. Good fruit set conditions, combined with excellent flower development, resulted in average to above average crop potential across the region. The dry conditions meant that disease pressure was very low for the season. Harvest began early with higher than average crops but with good sugar-acid balance and well developed flavour. Continuing cool conditions, together with higher than average crop loads resulted in a long vintage with excellent grape and wine quality.
