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2001 vintage report for Macedon Ranges (Victoria)

Vintage started early for some growers in the Macedon regionùfor example Rochford Wines had their earliest vintage ever, while for others vintage timing was normal. Vintage across the region lasted from the first week of April to the middle of May. Alan Cooper, president of the Macedon Ranges Vignerons’ Association, reports that yield was average to slightly up on normal. Weather prior to vintage was wet, with rain coming on 16 March and lasting 10 days. While this increased disease pressure, the rain provided natural water to maintain good vine function to continue fruit ripening. Vintage for those who picked before Easter took place in excellent weather. Post-Easter rains then held vintage off until mid to late April. Some properties experienced variable weather at flowering, resulting in a small amount of hen and chicken in Pinot Noir and Riesling. Growers at the northern end of the region reported ideal conditions, with excellent fruitset and yields. Growers reported first-rate fruit quality across the board, with excellent sugar levels, colour and flavours in reds, and very good sugar/acid balance for whites.