Let It Rain

For those of us who work with Mother Nature the weather is something of a talking point.  Not just because it affects sports matches, barbeques and family outings but because it can have a massive impact on what we do every day for our jobs.  So if you happen to be in the Barossa at the moment or in the next couple of weeks (and if you are, please drop by and say ‘hello’) then you may notice a lot of relaxed and happy grapegrowers around.  There is one simple reason for this: rain.  We have had over 380mm so far this year which is getting close to our annual average and there are predictions of more to come in Spring.  Fabulous!

Why?  Well, winter rainfall is one of the critical factors in generating good canopies on the vines in the growing season.  Those good canopies born of soggy winter conditions paradoxically will protect the vine and the grapes from the inevitable heat and sun of January and February. So that means better crop yields, balanced ripening and high quality fruit.  And that is a combination that makes grapegrowers and winemakers very happy!

Cheers, Alex