Canberra District - a rose among the thorns

The 2009 vintage in the Canberra district to date, is devoid of problems from hail, frost, lack of water, or searing heat. Growers are optimistic that it will be a very high quality vintage, similar to 2008. Small quantities (less than 9 % of total production) of mainly red grapes and Chardonnay are to date not sold. The Canberra  story is in contrast with many other Australian wine districts, who are reporting heat stressed vines, hail damage and large quantities of grapes unsold.

An estimated record production of nearly 5000 tonnes is expected from the Canberra District mature vines, many 20 + years old. An increasing proportion of the fruit is being sold out of the district to wineries seeking high quality cool climate grapes. This is due to the very high quality profile Canberra wines have been receiving both nationally and for some internationally in recent years. Some new plantings of Riesling and Shiraz are continuing, but at a slower rate.  Cellar door visitors to Canberra wineries in the October to January period, increased by as much as 15% over previous years.

The season started with a warm spring, average rain and no frost problems, although early summer was cool, which delayed flowering until late December. Rain periods throughout, produced a green landscape for Christmas and some disease pressure. However no damage has been reported. A warm to hot January / February with days in the high 30s has ensured full ripeness in all varieties and vintage is expected to start in late February or early March.