Filter reports by year

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

2008 vintage report for Margaret River (Western Australia)

By Nick Power
Chief Executive Officer
Margaret River Wine Industry Association

The ripening period for the 2008 Margaret River vintage was marked by a lack of disease pressure, due in part to relatively few days of humidity and rainfall post-veraison.

Overall, yields for 2008 whites were marginally down on 2007, but considerably higher for reds, although still below historical averages. Indications to date suggest that there was probably more yield variation between vineyards than would normally be the case in any other year.

Whites showed intense varietal flavours, well-concentrated and generous with balanced natural acidity.

At the time of writing, the pressed reds again showed a great depth of varietal characters, and good to excellent colouring with low pH.

Quality is as good as Margaret River gets due to the evenness and mild ripening season for both reds and whites. Vintage 2008 wines will cellar well, with flavours being seen as balanced yet intense. This year’s wines are being compared with those of 2001 and 2004.

The standout feature seems to be Cabernet Sauvignon; deep and dark red colour, accompanied by soft tannins and a lack of ‘jammy’ characteristics in final samples and crush.