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1999 vintage report for Upper Hunter Valley (New South Wales)

A very good growing season, after unseasonal wet weather throughout the winter period, led to good bunch weights and yields which were up 5-10% on 1998. Gr’me Pearson, president of the Upper Hunter Winemakers’ Association, said weather was very overcast at the start of vintage, but improved as vintage progressed. Powdery mildew became obvious for the first time, mainly in bunches. Downy mildew was ever present. Overcast weather at the start slowed down ripening. Gr’me said overall quality was good in both red and whites. ‘Shiraz and Merlot in particular were above average, with good fruit, good colour and good flavour. Chardonnay and Semillon were very good quality, with fruit picked early showing good acid and very good flavour. Sauvignon Blanc is the best in many years and Verdelho looks great,’ he said.