Soil moisture was at field capacity early on and vines grew well, with minimal to no disease pressure. Soil and plant tissue analysis showed both to be in good health. As a result, the only irrigation required was to supply top-up nutrients via judicious fertigation. No late frosts, no hail, no bad storms--all was well heading into '04 new year.

Early crop estimates showed bunch numbers to be down, possibly as a result of stress during '02/'03 season. Bunch weights however, were up due to favourable weather during flowering and fruit set.

Hot dry windy spells in mid to late January caused some skin damage to Shiraz, which would manifest itself later on. However, early harvest whites managed to avoid this effect, coming in at good maturity and condition. Aromatic whites show good varietal character and intensity. Chardonnay wines have full flavour and good structure.

A run of wet weather and warm nights in early March, leading into ripening, caused problems for Shiraz. Despite our best efforts, galloping Botrytis forced very selective hand picking (all grapes are hand picked) of Shiraz for dry red and a later harvest tawny port base.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot--by virtue of their tougher skins were able to handle the difficult conditions much better. This year's Cabernet in particular shows excellent ripe tannin structure and secondary fruit character. Petit Verdot came in at the best maturity for this variety so far, albeit in reduced quantity.