Kia ora all, As our cuzzies across the ditch wind up their harvest, we are just cranking up. Vintage 2012 will be the latest since 1997 – running about 2 weeks behind normal (whatever ‘normal’ is). We have been busy over Easter and have all the Chardonnay in barrel, have most of the Pinot Noir in tank and about 1/3rd of our Sauvignon safely in. Over Easter the weather was simply stunning – the Indian summer they said would never happen arrived and we had some of the best days we have seen all summer. The Easter bunny was not seen but our mate Brian dropped off 7 large crayfish on Easter Monday which were promptly turned into a delicious crayfish salad for lunch, a fine match for our Nautilus Cuvee (as featured in the F12 ‘harvest’ program). 2012 was always going to be low cropping and late but it appears we are having a dream run to the finish. The Pinot Noir off our Clay Hills block is simply stunning – the best I have seen. The low crops have resulted in intense flavours and we are able to pick at lower sugar levels this year, which means lower alcohols and better balanced wines. Twice we have had the threat of rain but it has disappeared before reaching Marlborough with no harm done – other than a few more grey hairs for Mike and I. Flavours in our Sauvignon Blanc vineyards are developing very nicely and most blocks are expected to be picked over the next 7-10 days or so. So its all hands to the pumps and presses and we go full bore to bring V2012 home to what looks like a great quality conclusion. Once again Marlborough is proving why it is the best place to grow grapes in New Zealand. Cheers, Clive J
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