Vintage conditions

There were good winter rains but still below the normal average, with odd warm days and some snowfall during late winter/ early spring along with some rain helped dam levels rise. These conditions also prepared for good, even budding to start the growing season. Mid-growing season was a little challenging with odd rain showers driving up humidity and disease pressure. With good growing conditions, came along a large quantity of bunches which required the team to do excessive bunch thinning and yield control measures, which gave a great opportunity to really select the best bunches available to ripen. A week before the harvest was to commence, the vineyards had to experience howling winds reaching up to 110km/h causing a lot of physical damage. During ripening the odd heat wave was experienced but overall lovely warm days and coolish nights allowed for perfect ripening and earlier picking dates. This resulted in lovely fresh, flavoured and rich wines with relatively low alcohol levels.

Tasting Video

With Cellarmaster Kevin Arnold

Vintage conditions

The ongoing drought continued to play a huge role on the 2019 vintage, a dry and warm winter hindering the dormancy period which is vital for even growth and survival. Across the board Waterford experienced on average a 30% drop in yield. Berries at harvest time were tiny and highly concentrated in flavour, and due to relatively cool and dry summer weather, the wines also ended up with low alcohols and softer acidities.