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1998 vintage report for Coonawarra (South Australia)

Reaction from Coonawarra winemakers to the 1998 vintage range from ‘best of the 1990s’ to ‘the best for 20 years.’ Brendan Provis, president of the Coonawarra Grape Growers Association, said the 1998 reds were excellent in colour and flavour. The quality of whites was also above average, although not as outstanding as for reds. Vintage began on 16 February, 1-2 weeks earlier than usual, and there was a 20% increase in yield, due to increased vineyard area and the fact that 1997 yields were below average. Weather during vintage was warm early, then cooler with some rain. This slowed ripening after an early start. Most fruit was harvested before any detrimental effect from rain. Brendan said with much of southern Australian fruit ripening at the same time, fermentation space was at a premium this vintage. ‘Fruit was being sent wherever there was room for it,’ he said.