Growing Conditions
The 2002 vintage goes down as being the coolest, windiest ‘non-summer’ on record, following on from our hottest summer on record in 2001. It was preceded by a wet winter and a spring that was cold, wet and windy - like winter really. The drizzly cold weather affected the flowering and caused poor fruit set, commonly known as ‘hen and chicken’, leading to very little fruit. In particular riesling and shiraz, Eden Valley signature varieties, were the worst affected by crop reductions, leaving less than 20% in some varieties.
Nose
Lifted floral aromas of citrus blossom and grapefruit are complemented by hints of stone-fruits, lime zest, marmalade and clove.
Palate
The wine is youthful for its age, with a vibrant and zesty palate that is beautifully balanced between fruit and acid with crunchy acidity rolling through for a long, crisp, minerally finish.
Appearance
Green-gold in colour.
Aging
Fermented in tank and bottled post-vintage (no oak or tank maturation) to preserve the wine’s fruit character.
Harvest
The season was 2-3 weeks late due to the unseasonable cold weather. With the smaller crop level, the balance of sugar, flavour and natural acidity in the fruit were excellent. Despite the pitiful crop 2002 was one of our most exceptional vintages ever, helped by a warm, dry Indian summer autumn period, providing sensational colours, flavours and ageing potential.