SA Harvest Report 2004 continued...

Stellenbosch

Production trends 

The crop is approximately 7% bigger than in 2003. Shiraz, Merlot and Pinotage produced a larger crop (big bunches). In general Cabernet Sauvignon produced a smaller crop than last season. The white cultivars' crops were average to variable. 

Climatic conditions and influence on vine growth 

The 2003 climatic conditions were characterised by a warm and dry autumn and early winter. Good rainfall occurred in August and September 2003. Spring and early summer were cool with good rainfall in December 2003. In January and the first half of February temperatures were above average and rainfall was good. This was followed by cooler temperatures with good rainfall at the beginning of March. The season experienced hardly any strong southeasterly winds, although regular south-southwesterly winds occurred, causing mild temperatures in the growing season. Although good budding occurred, initial shoot growth was uneven, mainly because of the effect of the dry warm autumn (early leaf drop) and early winter on the vines' reserves. The uneven shoot growth caused the flowering period to be uneven and long. These factors resulted in uneven colour formation and ripening and crop control was important to promote more even ripening. Good distribution of rainfall throughout the growing season resulted in good canopies. There was next to zero fungal disease incidence, except for late post-harvest occurrence of oidium on leaves. 

Grape and wine quality 

In general 2004 may be considered a good year. The quality of early and midseason red cultivars, Shiraz in particular, is very good. The quality of the early white cultivars ranges from very good to average. With the late ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon in particular, high pH and low acids were encountered. 

Worcester

Production trends

The 2004 crop is the biggest in the history of Worcester/Rawsonville. The crop was 17% bigger than in 2003. Production of premium white and red grapes increased by 28% and 31% respectively. The bigger crop can be ascribed to favourable climatic conditions, next to zero fungal disease incidence, better production practices, sensible irrigation, gradual expansion of vineyard surface and regular uprooting of unproductive vineyards. The harvest was approximately 10 - 14 days later with certain cultivars being crushed approximately 30 days later, e.g. certain blocks of Pinotage. This put huge pressure on processing capacity later in the season.

Climatic conditions and influence on vine growth

Rainfall was more than 50% below the long term average. This contributed to an exceptionally fungus and disease free year. Average maximum and minimum temperatures were on the whole higher during the ripening period, and there was less humidity. Botrytis occurred during the harvest. Mealybug infestation remains high. Leafroll and delayed ripening are on the increase. 

Grape and wine quality 

The large harvest put pressure on cellar facilities and a significant part of the harvest was converted to rebate. More complex wines with slightly less fruity white wines can be expected. Dry white cultivars that were crushed before the heatwave in the middle of February are looking good. There are some exceptional wines from selected blocks. Chardonnay once again proved that the cultivar is well adjusted to the Worcester/Rawsonville area.

Information supplied by SAWIS and VinPro

Compiled and written by: Romi Boom
romi@intekom.co.za