Filter reports by year

• 2015
• 2014
• 2013
• 2012
• 2011
• 2010
• 2009
• 2008
• 2007
• 2006
• 2005
• 2004
• 2003
• 2002
• 2001
• 2000
• 1999
• 1998
• 1997
• 1996

2005 vintage report for Langhorne Creek (South Australia)

Langhorne Creek experienced ideal growing conditions up to veraison this year followed by a long ripening period of mild, dry days and cool nights. The absence of weather extremes allowed every red variety, including the more heat-sensitive varieties, to achieve excellent ripeness, character and concentration of flavour.
It was an early vintage this year with fruit destined for sparkling wine being harvested from the start of February. The harvest was then relatively constant with most finishing earlier than in past years. Only a few small parcels remained to be harvested by late April.
Yields, particularly of reds, were low to average this year but small berry size assisted with flavour concentration.
Red varieties across the district showed intense colours, clear varietal characteristics and excellent length of flavour although some berry dehydration in the last third of harvest has seen a few overripe wines being produced.
Cabernet Sauvignon quality is excellent with lots of blackberries and mint characteristics. Shiraz is showing plenty of plums, spices and chocolate.
Once again, excellent fruit from the Langhorne Creek wine region, but increased instances of uncontracted fruit in the area this year has left some growers with little joy.