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1997 vintage report for King Valley (Victoria)

The King Valley has suffered difficult vintages in the last few years with some of the wettest ripening periods this century. This year, with a return to weather closer to the long-term averages, the area again showed its great potential, according to Peter Read, President of the King Valley Grapegrowers’ Association. Vintage started at the end of February. Yield was down 25% on normal, probably due to poor bud initiation in 1995, combined with poor set in December 1996. Peter said the balmy autumn weather during vintage was ideal for ripening and harvest and there was virtually no disease. ‘For the first time for some years winemakers were able to dial up the required Baume,’ he said. Peter said deep colours and intense flavours marked the reds at the cooler end of the valley. The earlier ripening northern area did not display the same intensity, although there was still good, sound fruit. ‘There are excellent ripe flavours and we should see some great wines,’ he said.