Central Otago Vintage Reports

2010 Vintage

Spring was cloudy and largely frost free with temperatures marginally below the long term average. October was very still and cloudy and November dry. Much needed rain arrived in December and a cool morning on the 21st surprised many people. Overall, Spring was mild and a touch on the cool side. The beginning of Summer was wet and overcast and these conditions continued through until the last week of January. This was followed by a month of fine, hot weather. March and April were dry and warmer than average. Finally, on ANZAC weekend (25th April), the skies opened and the rain fell heavily for three days. While the ripening period was largely frost free, two frosts early in April put growers on guard. Summer and Autumn periods were warmer than average and overall the 2010 season was warm and the quality high.

2009 Vintage

After a warm start to the season daily temperatures dropped during December (flowering) and were accompanied by 112 mm of rainfall (three times the average). Cool, wet conditions during this period slowed heat accummulation and resulted in a "lack lustre" spring period. A cool, wet January was followed by an even cooler February. This weather continued into March and although April was warmer than average, overall 2009 can be considered a cool year.

2008 Vintage

After a cool October, warm tempertures in November prevailed until Christmas. A late frost on 28th November caught many growers out, and dry conditions necessitated irrigation in many vineyards. Overall, spring conditions were very favourable with a good flowering and high heat accumulation during the early season. A hot January and warm February were followed by moist conditions during March (around Easter) and dry, stable but cooler conditions in April. Five light to moderate frosts at the end of the season had growers on tender hooks. Overall the 2008 Vintage was hot and productive.