Growing Conditions

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.

Nose

Sweet floral aromas with passionfruit and gooseberry hints of fresh rose petals and tropical fruits.

Palate

The palate is delicate and crisp with persistent flavours and good length.

Appearance

Pale green gold in colour.

Food Pairing

Dtom Kha of crab.

Harvest

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

Bottling

***Stelvin cap***: Bottled under a Stelvin screw cap to capture the freshness and keeping qualities of sauvignon blanc and to protect its purity from cork-influenced off characters.