By great good fortune, and not by design, I arrive at the vineyard to be told by Charlotte that it is the final day of harvest and that if I race up to the back of the vineyard I will be able to see the harvester in action. Not only did I see that, but I was able to ride on top of it, thus giving me an opportunity to capture the vineyards in all their autumn glory.
I was then able to wander around the vineyard as the sun set, transforming already rich colours into something more vivid...
That evening I was privileged to be able to taste potential blends for the 2009 vintage pinot noir. All I can say is that I think that it will be even better than the 2008 vintage - of which I have drunk more than my fair share! I am fascinated by the influence of the eucalyptus trees which grow near the pinot grapes and interested to see how blending softens the menthol without totally eliminating the grapes' Australian terroir.
Richard and Kathy are happy with the results of this year's harvest. 275 tons of grapes have been successfully harvested and by keeping up the water over the summer to the grapes, the vineyard was not affected too adversely by the late summer rains.
The next morning I am up early to wander around as the last of the mist curls around the vineyard.
I am aware that my year is almost up and am intent on savouring each visit left to me...
