Another vintage has come and gone in the Barossa and having pressed off the very last batch of red grapes last week, it’s time to take a deep breath and reflect on the season, and the wines made.

In many ways weather was the dominant factor to contend with this year. From early season drought, to frosts, hot periods and mid harvest rainfall, mother nature threw the full complement of hurdles at us. Sounds ominous! But despite or maybe even because of these challenging conditions, we’ve made some fantastic wines that reflect the personality of the vintage.

White varieties, especially Pinot Gris and Chardonnay are vibrant and varietal with lovely fruit and superb natural acidity. They stack up beautifully against the very best years from the Eden Valley.

Reds were solid across the board, with our region's flag bearer, Shiraz shining above all others. The weather conditions led to smaller berries and bunches and overall lower yields. We did see thicker skins too, which led to generously concentrated flavours, deep colour and ripe but balanced tannins. Aromatically there is more spice and perfume from 2026, and the wines will be approachable early, with the best being fantastic long term cellaring options.

Peter Kelly, Chief Winemaker