During the growing season, varying conditions prevailed in Adelaide Hills,

Tasmania, and Tumbarumba,

all of which led to excellent grape quality.

In Adelaide Hills, winter rainfall was within the

long-term average, laying the foundation for a promising

spring. Nevertheless, weather conditions in late

November were difficult. They delayed flowering of the vines

and impaired pollination. The summer was

predominantly warm and dry. The canopy was

healthy and stable throughout the growing season, allowing the smaller grapes to develop excellent varietal characteristics. In Tasmania,

the year was warm and dry. The harvest took place early.

Winter rainfall was below average,

so soil moisture was low during bud formation.

The region's vines were in good health and produced high-quality fruit. The season began dry in Tumbarumba. However, there was significant rainfall in late spring and early summer. The year turned out to be warm, favoring an early harvest and producing a Chardonnay of exceptionally high quality, albeit with low to moderate yields. This vintage is one of the best ever for Chardonnay at Tumbarumba. It underscores once again the importance of cool-climate regions for Penfolds.