2006 was very early with reds being harvested in March and in some cases wineries finishing vintage in March.

Heat and water stress through the growing season contributed to the early picking with budburst only a week or so early. Yields have been exceptionally low especially in Cabernet Sauvignon many blocks around 1-1.5 tonne /acre.

Rain mid vintage put vines back on a more normal timing and very good fruit was taken later in vintage with the same baumes but better fruit depth and tannin ripeness – a vintage in two halves.

Wine quality looks solid with overall very good quality but volumes will be limited with Cabernet Sauvignon producing the best wines.

Fruit similar in many ways to the 2005 vintage, more mid weight wines but with very good fruit density and length.