The year 2002 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. The drizzly cold weather affected the flowering and caused poor fruit set, commonly known as ‘hen and chicken’. In particular riesling and shiraz, Eden Valley sig- nature varieties, were the worst affected with crop reductions leaving less than 20% in some varieties.

Sweet delicate fragrant lemon grass, clover blossom, gooseberry and lemon blossom aromas with hints of lanolin and biscuity oak.

Soft sweet fruit; rich intense and herbaceous with excellent depth, texture and length. Quite restrained with excellent potential for long development and ageing.

Green gold in colour.

Rillette of rabbit with cumquats.

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 the warm dry Indian summer autumn period, providing sensational colours, flavours and ageing potential.

Steven closure.