VINTAGE UPDATE

ripening so we haven’t tasted any yet. At this stage, they are still quite tart. In comparison to recent years, this vintage is a lot later than a typical year and I have a feeling it’s going to be very compressed. We do plan to try and hang our reds out for a bit longer on the vine this year (weather permitting) to enhance flavour and colour development. I’m very excited to be taking the reins this vintage for Brand's Laira and am eager to see what the vintage brings.”

Brooke Blair | Lead Winemaker

Victoria

Baileys of Glenrowan

“Glenrowan has received above average rainfall with a wetter and cooler than average approximately two weeks behind recent vintages. Grapes have just completed veraison with full-colour change now complete. It’s early, and sugars are starting. It’s a bit early to pick a standout and due to late season, flavours have just started. In comparison to recent years, the season is cooler and later. This has been a high input season due to above-average rainfall and Baileys vineyard is fully certified organic, making

Spring. The cooler conditions have slowed the growing and we are currently running it extra difficult. To the credit of the vineyard team, with diligent management and going the extra mile, Baileys have maintained high-quality fruit for vintage 2023 and vines look in excellent health – a truly magnificent effort under the most trying conditions.”

Paul Dahlenburg | Chief Winemaker

Morris of Rutherglen

“Temperatures are much cooler than average (all through growing season). Rainfall has been substantially higher than the average. At present, we are approximately 50% through veraison (berry colouring and softening) which is approximately 3 weeks later than the average. In comparison to last year’s vintage, much cooler conditions have led to the harvest starting to be delayed by approximately 3 weeks. The cool ripening conditions will result in the wines showing good, fresh and vibrant fruit, with characters of higher natural acid levels. All the fruit is in very good condition, and the climate conditions experienced look like the resultant wines will be very good quality.”

David Morris | Chief Winemaker