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1997 vintage report for Tasmania

‘Dry and sunny weather in April allowed excellent colour and flavour development in red wines from the north of the state,’ said Dr Andrew Pirie, president of the Vineyards Association of Tasmania. ‘Chardonnay in the north was picked in the autumn rain breaks. Conditions before this, combined with low yields, should result in some excellent wines.’ Dr Pirie said yields were down 10% on 1996. Heavy crops in the north of the state last year and below average temperatures led to low fruit initiation and weak vines for the 1997 vintage. ‘Temperatures in early January for flowering and fruit-set were good. Good sunshine and low humidity in April are key features of Vintage ’97,’ he said. It was a low botrytis year generally and good vineyard practices kept other diseases in check. Dr Pirie said weather conditions were closer to average this season and vines should recover from 1996. ‘The foundations have been laid for a moderate yield in ’98.’