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2010 vintage report for Limestone Coast – Coonawarra

Supplied by the Coonawarra Grapegrowers’ Association and Coonawarra Vignerons’ Association
Growing season: Winter rainfall in 2009 was above average, giving good soil moisture levels for budburst in early spring. Favourable conditions continued during spring with minimal frost and settled flowering conditions, allowing for excellent vine canopy development and fruitset. During November, much of South Australia experienced a protracted ‘hot spell’. However, most vineyards were spared from damage as bunch development was still at an early stage. Strategic crop manipulation and reduction was widespread across the district to ensure fruit development was optimum, especially in Shiraz and Merlot varieties. There were minimal disease issues.
Vintage: Due to the above average summer temperatures prior to vintage, ripening was accelerated with harvest beginning approximately 10 days earlier than usual; many wineries began picking in early to mid-February. The early ‘break’ to the season provided a freshening of the fruit and ensured all parcels were harvested by the first week in May.
Yields and quality: Flavours have been of a high standard showing vibrant varietal distinction, particularly Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. However, yields have been generally below average. With a return to more stable weather patterns during January and February, Coonawarra’s key varieties – Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz – exhibit the benefit of slow maturity, ripe seeds, and rich tannins.