The average winter rainfall this season was a welcome relief after 2003’s fourth-worst drought in history. A relatively frost-free, wet warm and thundery spring followed, creating a natural ‘greenhouse’ effect. The vines grew vigorously, flowered and in general set a large crop. December was the hottest for 10 years, however at the start of 2004 the weather became mild and windy and the vines thrived under virtually no heat stress. At the start of February searing heat caused sunburn and significant crop losses. New records were broken with South Australia experiencing its hottest day ever. Fortunately March returned the region to glorious sunny days and cold dewy nights, with a couple of minor rain events, allowing the fruit to ripen under near perfect conditions.

A delicate, sweet and fragrant bouquet, complex with pear, honeysuckle, nectarine and clove oak hints of barrel fermentation.

A fleshy, textured palate of stone-fruits and clove oak; complex, with a long rich silky finish.

Gold green in colour.

Cappelletti in celeriac broth.

The vintage was almost as late as 2002 with good yields and excellent fruit quality.