Filter reports by year

• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008
• 2007
• 2006
• 2005
• 2004
• 2003
• 2002
• 2001
• 2000
• 1999
• 1998
• 1997
• 1996

2005 vintage report for South Burnett (Queensland)

The South Burnett wine region has enjoyed it most successful vintage during its short history. Both yield and quality were up compared to previous seasons. Approximately 2000 tonnes of fruit was crushed—a record for the area.
Verdelho, Chardonnay and Semillon enjoyed the warm, dry conditions which resulted in yields of 10-15 t/ha being harvested.
Verdelho—the region’s signature variety—was first class and Clovely Estate winemaker, Luke Fitzpatrick, commented, ‘The 2005 Verdelho has had a superb growing season with cool night temperatures during December and near perfect ripening conditions into January. The fruit has been harvested at Baumes between 11.75 and 13.0 with great natural acidity and intense tropical flavours. We also had some very good Semillon fruit arrive in the winery around 11 Be with well-structured acidity and classic Semillon flavour profiles’.
The reds continued the trend as the weather remained dry. Shiraz was harvested from mid-February onwards, with yields between 9-11 t/ha.
Cabernet Sauvignon was picked during early to mid March with light yields of 7-10 t/ha.
Viticultural consultant, Peter Stewart, noted, ‘The dry conditions prevented any flavour dilution, with both berry and bunch size smaller than in previous vintages. This created a concentration of flavours and deep colour’.
Other red varietals also enjoyed the ideal conditions with Merlot, Chambourcin and Petit Verdot displaying good varietal characteristics.