The Swan Valley 2009 vintage is looking very good

by Duncan Harris
(Swan Valley, Western Australia)

23rd December 2008.

Following a warm 2008 vintage the 2009 vintage is fast approaching. Early Madeleine grapes are past veraison and will be picked next week for the table and some for the flor fino sherry.

During November we had some hot day, ie 35C but mostly cooler days of 22C with an unusual amount of rain being 47mm. This has pushed on our dry grown vineyard and hedging is necessary to just get down the rows.

In the Verdelho, mildew pressures are low at this time of year and the crop is clean and fruit levels are quite substantial about the same as last year.

Next week crop thinning (1/2 the fruit on the ground) of the Pedro Ximenez will allow the vines to naturally feed their grapes to mature to 25 Beame by late March.

The Chenin Blanc is also laden, where some will go for a sparkling wine and the "2009 Grape Pickers Reserve" and the rest will make an excellent full flavoured brandy in years to come.

At this time of year we do not know what the weather will bring, but the start is looking very promising.

Merry Christmas.

Duncan Harris
Organic Vigneron.
LEDASWAN ORGANIC WINES