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 like winter really. The drizzly cold weather affected the flowering and caused fruit set, commonly known as ‘hen and chicken’, leading to very little fruit. In particular riesling and merlot, Lenswood signature varieties, were the worst affected with crop reductions leaving us with less than 10% in some varieties.

Sweet honeysuckle, white peach, clove and vanilla with hints of biscuity oak.

Complex with creamy sweet fruit on the palate and rich juicy texture with good depth of flavour, length and crispness on the finish.

Gold green in colour.

Tarragon roasted chicken.

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.