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2013 vintage report for Clare Valley (South Australia)

As with 2012, vintage in the Clare Valley was very early. The first grapes were harvested in the third week in January in the southern end of the valley for sparkling base, and the first table wine grapes (Chardonnay and Semillon) were harvested in the first week of February.

The seasonal conditions experienced over the 2012-13 growing year could be described as benign, apart from the frost event of mid-October which impacted many vineyards in the southern and eastern parts of the region.

“Overall, yields were slightly down in comparison to long-term averages, but some varieties were exceptions,” said John Bastian, president of the Clare Valley Winegrowers Association.

“Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, in particular, seem to have been the most consistent bearers this season, with average yields and early indications from winemakers of excellent quality, particularly flavour intensity, in the reds.”

“Overall, Shiraz yields have been lower than average. The lower yield expectation, coupled with frost damage, appears to have reduced any oversupply issues for red varieties in the short term, with a steady demand for red varieties right up until vintage.”

The very welcome decision by SA Water to reduce (albeit temporarily) the price of mains water this year has undoubtedly had a significant benefit both in terms of yield and quality of the vintage overall.