After one of the worst droughts in history the soil moisture profile and dams were lower than at the start of winter. Spring was frosty and windy but not overly wet. The frosts in October were bad news for many, although the rains were at least strategic, which resulted in better fruit set than the previous year. The hot, dry and windy weather during summer stressed the vines severely, reducing the berry size and crop. A serious rain event occurred in late February causing some fruit split. 2003 must surely go down on record as being one of our hottest, driest and windiest summers, leading to a smaller vintage of potentially very good quality.

Sweet ripe lifted blackberry, plums, prunes and anise with tar and bacon oak characters.

The palate is sweet, fine and solid with a chunky texture; big and rich. Lots of tannins, firmer structure and good length.

Deep crimson in colour.