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1998 vintage report for Great Southern (Western Australia)

Tony Smith, chairman of the Great Southern Wine Producers’ Association, describes 1998 in the region as ‘a good vintage with some interesting angles which stretched the abilities of both viticulturist and winemaker.’ Yields averaged 8 to 10 tonne/hectare. He said 1997 produced average winter rains which carried through most of the spring, enabling water storage to be filled to capacity. Last spring rains occurred in the first week in October and dry weather set in until the second week in March. Summer temperatures were within average ranges apart from two short heat waves, one in late November and the other in early February. Vintage started in mid February, two weeks earlier than normal. Early varieties Chardonnay and Pinot Noir had average yields and good quality. Most Riesling was picked before the rain periods in the second and fourth weeks of March and most producers avoided serious botrytis and mould problems. Shiraz yields and quality were good and most Cabernet was picked in good condition. Fruit ripeness was achieved at lower Baume than in the last three years with most varieties at 12.5 ° to 13 ° ‘Post vintage assessment shows excellent Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling and very good Shiraz, Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc,’ Tony Smith said.