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2004 vintage report for Grampians (Victoria)

The local vintage had most growers a little edgy early in the year; a hot January with plenty of bright sunshine followed by an unseasonally cold February left most wondering if the fruit would ever get through veraison and ripen properly. During spring, flowering and fruitset went well and there was plenty of bunches, so subsequent crop thinning was necessary, in some vineyards at least twice. The weather during the growing season was not favourable for disease; apart from some mild humidity during the ripening season the fruit was expected to be harvested healthy and clean. March and April were practically perfect. About 6 mm of rain early in March and another 25 mm later in the month helped a lot of thirsty vines push on. In the last week of April, another 25 mm settled the dust and helped ripening again, albeit slowly. Harvest was a little later than previous years and concluded about mid April. Generally, yields were up; 2001 was the last decent crop and this year was 10-15% higher. Quality was very good and in some cases excellent wines have been reported. Alcohol levels range from 12.5 to 14.5%. General comments from winemakers describe wines with good acid, bright deep colour and very spicy Shiraz.