Vintage 2023 was a real rollercoaster ride; the initial excitement and anticipation, the ups and downs as we made our way through harvest and finally the feeling of satisfaction when you make it to the end in one piece!

It was one of the more challenging years in terms of weather, a very long cool ripening season punctuated with ongoing rain events in McLaren Vale.   Both winter and spring had higher than average rainfall, resulting in delayed budburst and late ripening for nearly all varieties. Wet and windy weather at flowering also contributed to lower crop levels across the board.  Disease pressure was higher than normal for the area early on in the season however did not end up being a significant ongoing issue fortunately.  Harvest was drawn out and unpredictable as Mother Nature played havoc with picking decisions. The BOM rain forecast was essential viewing for growers and winemakers alike this year!  Much credit is due to our wonderful growers who persisted through some tricky conditions this season, it truly was a team effort getting the grapes harvested and into the winery (often very quickly when the rain clouds rolled in!)

However after all this, the wines themselves in McLaren Vale are shining.  No heat waves has also meant the wines are full of power and bright fresh fruit. Amazing natural colour and acidity due to the cool season.  These wines are the rainbow after the storm and it will be really exciting to see them blossom over time. We already have the 2023 Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc in bottle ready to enjoy and our 2023 Pinot Noir will not be far off.  All other parcels are tucked safely in barrels for the winter, quietly biding their time and maturing into what I'm sure will be some delicious wines to share in the coming months and years....

Cheers,
Bec Swincer