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2012 vintage report for Coonawarra (South Australia)

The 2012 Coonawarra vintage has been labelled “excellent” by the region’s winemakers.
In a report provided by Coonawarra Grape Grower and Vignerons presidents Dan Newson and Sue Hodder, good winter rains resulted in a full soil moisture profile, leading to ample vine carbohydrate reserves. These optimal growing conditions combined with an early burst of warm weather meant the vines started their growing cycle a couple of weeks early.
Flowering commenced in late October with mild, but windy conditions leading to a slightly poorer set than in the previous couple of years. Coupled with above average temperatures from November to January, berries were smaller than average.
Harvest began in early February on the whites, about two weeks ahead of long-term average, with good acid to ripeness balance being achieved and very strong flavours to boot. As the reds started to reach between 10-12 Baumé, a period of very cool nights and mild but warm days set in and slowed the whole ripening process down, giving the grapes time to reach optimum phenological maturity. Seed hardness was reached at the same times as sugar and flavour levels came into balance. Good natural acid levels will be a big highlight of this season with smooth tannins showing through quite well in the early wines.
Overall, the tonnages were slightly down but this has definitely been replaced with quality. Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Chardonnay have been fresh and full-flavoured, retaining their natural acidity.
It is difficult to pick a favourite amongst the reds. Merlot and Shiraz show full colour and swags of varietal character and weight.
Cabernet Sauvignon has that extra something this year with outstanding blackcurrant and briar notes, with full, ripe seed and tannins.
This will be a vintage to collect. There was very little uncontracted fruit in Coonawarra in 2012 and there was strong demand for what was available.

Source: Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker May 2012