March 5, 2018
2018 is proving to be a corker of a season for the South Burnett’s winemakers, with harvest finished and the majority of this year’s wines nearing completion in the winery.
On Monday, South Burnett Wine Industry Association president Jason Kinsella said the 2018 vintage has been nothing short of spectacular.
The reason is that grape-growing conditions have been almost ideal this year.
“We had a much cooler summer growing season than usual, with average daytime temperatures in the high 20s and beautiful cool nights,” Jason said.
“Couple this with little or no rainfall in December and January and grape growers and winemakers in the region are crowing.”
Several wine grape varieties have really benefitted from the conditions.
“It appears that Verdelho is the hero variety once again, with the 2018 Verdelho looking awesome,” Jason said.
“But our region’s faith in Mediterranean varieties like Sangiovese and Tempranillo is also bringing huge results.
“Wherever I look across the region’s wineries, this year’s wines are looking fantastic.
“It’s an exciting time to be a winemaker in Queensland, and we’re loving it.”
Rainfall since the end of harvest has given the vines a much-needed drink, and will allow them to regenerate for the next season’s harvest which will kick off with budburst in spring.
“It has also left the region looking a picture of big blue skies, lush green fields and autumn hues in the vineyards.
The South Burnett’s wine industry will celebrate at the 19th annual Wine and Food in the Park Festival this Saturday, March 10.
“With the South Burnett just a two hour drive from Noosa, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Brisbane, there has never been a better time to come and try the wines from this exciting region,” Jason said.
