Shiraz Viognier 1996

1996 was a difficult vintage for many wineries in NSW and Victoria where a very cool summer and a cool and sometimes rainy autumn made it very difficult for the grapes to ripen properly.

In the Canberra District we had our share of cool weather but mercifully were spared the rain that plagued winemakers in the cooler parts of Victoria during vintage.

We picked later than we ever have before with Chardonnay in mid-April to Riesling in mid-May.  though a little apprehensive at first we were delighted with the wines.

Perhaps having to struggle up to full ripeness in a cool year was good for them.

The Pinot component (6.4%) was picked on April 11.

The Shiraz and Viognier (10%) were picked on the 2nd to the 4th of May.

Average Baume, 12.34°.

Pressed on May 13.

An average of 10 days on skins. Seguin Moreau providing the new oak component. 12 months in wood.