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1998 vintage report for Orange (New South Wales)

Peter Hedberg of the Orange Region Vignerons Association reported that mild, dry conditions had produced some exceptional flavour and colour in all red varieties. ‘Cabernet, Shiraz and Merlot were excellent and Pinot Noir also showed great flavour for champagne base.’ Yields increased by 10% mainly due to good January rain. Weather during vintage was dry, sunny and mild and disease was minimal. ‘Chardonnay has riper peach/melon characteristics this year due to the earlier season and dry conditions. Sauvignon Blanc has intense tropical fruit flavours, balanced by the usual herbaceous characters,’ Peter said. He said birds continue to be a major problem, with netting and sound systems proving the most effective deterrents. ‘A new 1,000 tonne winery is being built at Orange to handle the increased crush, which was 1,800 tonnes this year from 1,000 ha of vines,’ he said.