2008 vintage report, Katnook Estate.
30th June 2008
Another quality grape harvest is wrapped up for 2008 at Katnook Estate, Coonawarra. Read all the details from Katnook Estate’s Vineyard Manager and Winemaker...
Chris Brodie, Vineyard Manager since 2000 reports on the 2008 Katnook harvest.
- The 2008 vintage started on 15th February and concluded on the 24th April.
- Frost from the 2006 growing season generally had very little carry over effect. Riesling was the only variety affected, with very low yields in 2008.
- Katnook Estate had massive rainfall of 101.5mm during October 2007, which enhanced vine health and fruit development.
- Rainfall thereafter was well below average with just 86.5mm falling over the next six months – from November 07 through til April 08.
- The dry vintage resulted in zero pest and disease incidence.
- The hottest 10 consecutive days on record in March 08 lead to some shrivel in the Cabernet Sauvignon. Shrivelled fruit was not harvested and the unaffected fruit remained on vines during the subsequent cool period before it was picked. The flavours in these batches of Cabernet Sauvignon were very pleasing. Sauvignon Blanc was thankfully harvested before the heat wave and shows outstanding varietal flavour.
- Surprisingly, the shrivel - prone variety of Shiraz was not affected by the heatwave, nor was Merlot.
- Overall, yields were around 30% below estimates.
Wayne Stehbens, Winemaker since 1980 reports on how the 2008 wines are shaping up.
- An early start and very early finish to vintage – the earliest since 1991.
- Small berry size across most varieties.
- Quality ranges from good to outstanding.
- Reds show excellent colour and good tannins.
- Generally, below average yields.
- Completely disease free.
White Wines
All whites were harvested very early, generally displaying good varietal distinction.
Sauvignon Blanc
- Yields were below average.
- Flavours are intense, ranging from herbaceous to light tropical.
- Great varietal definition and distinction.
- Overall we expect this to be a strong vintage for Sauvignon Blanc.
Chardonnay
- Yields were below average.
- Generous palate weight and structure.
- Good acid and fine flavours - abundant melon, pineapple and stone fruit flavours.
- Good varietal distinction.
Red wines
Most red varieties had small berries, open bunches and thick skins, which produced great colour and good tannins.
Merlot
- Range of flavours include ripe plum and dark berry fruits.
- Picked slightly riper than usual.
- Outstanding colour, fine soft, assertive tannins.
- Some parcels show outstanding potential and overall, quality is very promising.
Cabernet Sauvignon
- Yields are well below average, due to some shrivelled fruit which was not harvested.
- Excellent colours, generous structures and fine lingering tannins.
- Good varietal distinction and ripeness, with flavours of attractive mint and mulberry.
Shiraz
- Yields were right on average.
- Good ripe flavours, raspberry and l liquorice some spice.
- Very good colour and structure with fine tannins.
- Good to outstanding quality.
It’s early days but current indications are that we can expect some exciting wines from the 2008 harvest.
