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2005 vintage report for Great Southern (Western Australia)

Vintage in the Great Southern got off to a flying start in early March with the harvest of some exceptional quality Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. The moderate spring weather conditions led to the development of grapes with good flavour definition and ideal natural acidity. It is anticipated the 2005 whites will develop into wines with exceptional cellaring qualities.
Select parcels of early-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz grapes, harvested from vines with open canopies and minimal irrigation inputs, are showing great potential. Winemakers are exited about the potential for producing big-bodied wines with slightly higher alcohol levels than previous years. The heavy rains at the end of March had significant impact on the quality of the red fruit still hanging on the vines. Much of this fruit was left on the vines but on the up side many dams in the region almost filled to capacity alleviating any water shortages at the wineries.