Picked early at 12.5° Beaumé, the Chardonnay was gently pressed off and the majority fermented in stainless steel to preserve the fresh aromas of citrus fruits and tight acidity and structure. A small component was barrel fermented; some wild ferment; the balance high solids ferment. The Viognier, true to its variety, required longer on the vine for the grapes to reach full flavour, ripeness and texture, and was picked at about 14.0° Beaumé. This component of the wine was fermented in older French barriques.

Vintage 2007: marked the culmination of a record drought in McLaren Vale (and indeed the rest of Australia) which resulted in tiny crops, from unexpectedly healthy vines. Whites in particular kept their basal leaves far longer than was expected which protected fruit from sunburn. Vintage 2007 started (and finished) approximately one month early and fruit is characterised by good acid retention, power AND elegance...... altogether an unusual but excellent vintage. Both red and white wines have amazing potential.