April 10th – The 2024 vintage began with a relatively benign season from September to November, characterised by stable weather and persistent cloud cover, which moderated evening temperatures. However, December and January presented significant challenges with heavy rainfall, reaching up to 70mm, during the critical two-week flowering period. Vineyards situated downhill fared better initially, while those uphill faced a tough season marked by wet and humid conditions, leading to widespread downy mildew and unusually, small patches of bacterial inflorescence necrosis.
Particularly, vineyards at higher elevations around Main Ridge suffered significant yield losses due to these compounding pressures. However, regions like Tuerong, Balnarring, Moorooduc, and lower, more northerly vineyards managed to maintain good yields and concentration. Following the challenging period in December and January, there was a seven-week stretch without rain, commencing at veraison. This prolonged dry spell, coupled with two significant heat events, resulted in high levels of titratable acidity (TA) and pH, rewarding winemakers with a deft hand.
Despite the heat events, which accelerated ripening and compressed the vintage into a shorter, more intense period, little crop damage was reported. This pressure to expedite harvest contributed to exceptional color, intensity, and pleasing flavor profiles. Harvest occurred approximately two weeks earlier than usual, around February 16th, compared to the typical start date of March 1st. Chardonnay is looking especially smart with pinot noir adding layers and complexity to the vintage. Other red varietals are progressing at their usual pace, with expectations of being in tanks by mid-April.
Overall, wineries with vineyards spread across the region experienced mitigated risk, highlighting the importance of diversification in managing vintage and climate challenges.
