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1998 vintage report for Tasmania

When this report was compiled not all figures were available, but indications are that there will be an increase in production of more than 50% over last year. Fred Peacock, secretary of the Vineyards Association of Tasmania, said the increase was partly due to an increase in bearing area, but was largely the result of very good seasonal weather. Spring and summer were dry and warm, followed by a cool autumn. The dry warm seasonal conditions also resulted in generally reduced disease pressure. Fred said the 1998 reds showed full ripe flavours, soft acids, fine tannins and superb colours. ‘Some excellent wines are in barrels, with good pH levels,’ he said. ‘Whites have slightly lower acidity with well developed full fruit flavours. Well structured wines of excellent varietal fruit character are anticipated.’ It was a much longer and larger vintage than any previously. ‘Most wineries were at full capacity and labour resources were fully utilised,’ Fred said.