11 November 2022

Budburst went well and the vines are carrying a healthy, yet modest, crop, which is what we want when growing high-quality wine grapes.

Unusually cool temperatures and rainfall have presented plenty of challenges for the Vineyard. However, the vineyard team led by Nick Brown and our Vineyard Manager Will Stephen are still on track for another great vintage.

Our beloved Old Vines near the Murray have seen some flood water, which could mean slightly smaller yields for the 2022 vintage. The St Leonards Cabernet Franc vineyard near the lagoon is very wet – but it is partial – and given that we are so close to the river, it is not the first time this has happened; the Cabernet Franc have often had their feet wet during Spring!

 A cool, wet season can see vineyard pest numbers increase dramatically. But because we don't use pesticides in the Vineyard, populations of beneficial species are also booming, keeping the unwanted pest populations under control. 

The vines are now well and truly close to flowering, the next crucial growth stage. We hope mother nature favours us with mild and calm conditions and will be sure to keep you updated as the growing season progresses!