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2002 vintage report for Coonawarra (South Australia)

The vintage was very good, very little and very late!
The record coolness of spring and summer (more than 2°C cooler than average), delayed flowering and significantly reduced fruitset. The low yields resulted from fewer and smaller berries per bunch, rather than a reduction in bunch numbers.
Autumn temperatures were 1.8°C above average for April with clear conditions holding, providing bright sunshine and little rain. Harvest finished a few weeks later than usual, with the last grapes picked on 16 May.
Low yields and ideal ripening conditions are normal precursors for high quality and the wines this year are of exceptional quality. The smaller berries and looser bunches allowed the fruit to mature to a high Baume and peak flavour ripeness, while maintaining ideal pH and crisp acid.
Yields from white varieties were less affected than the reds, with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc looking good. The conditions were especially conducive to the crisp acidity of Riesling. The reds are showing deep rich colour and excellent varietal definition, both on the nose and palate. Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot wines are all showing potential to produce superb wines, albeit in limited quantities.