keep
Elegant wines with a good balance of natural acidity and fruit
Weather Conditions
A cool spring and summer—reportedly among the lowest on record—followed average winter rainfalls. The cool summer led to a warm dry autumn that ripened grapes to perfection. These conditions were very good for developing varietal character and complexity of flavours in the fruit, particularly in mature vineyards.
‘Varietal definition and refined flavours will be a hallmark of the 2002 vintage,’ said Philip Shaw, Southcorp Company Winemaker.
The best performing varieties were Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir—all of which tend to thrive in cooler conditions.
Best Appellations
Coonawarra, Barrossa Valley, Langhorne Creek, McLaren Vale, Riverland, Padthaway, Coonawarra, Margaret River