We had a mild winter which resulted in early bud burst. Spring was cool and a bit blustery which appears to have had an impact on flowering and yields. Yields were down about 10-15% in our vineyard.

We then had a hot January which resulted in rapid ripening and an early start to the 2015 vintage.

However, as a result of the warm dry summer, 3drops whites (Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay), have lovely ripe flavour profiles - but are also varietal in character and show good acid structures.

The warm Jan and Feb was followed by a cooler than average March in the Great Southern resulting in a slower ripening period for the red varieties, which we harvested in early April.

Despite the cooler conditions, good fruit ripeness was achieved with Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet. The red varities have great fruit richness and defenition, contrasted against the elegance of the region's cool climate.

Fortunately we harvested just prior to torrential rain in the Great Southern (approximately 120mm in Mt Barker).