Viticulturist’s Report for 2006/2007 Season

The 2006/2007 growing season had a good start with ample winter rain and cold weather in the months from June 2006 to August 2006.  After the winter season the Paarl region received relatively little rain throughout the growing season up to December 2006 that was excellent for vine development and the growing of high quality grapes.  Budding of vines was a little bit earlier than usual, but the budding process was very even.   Producers adhered to strict spraying programmes that ensured vineyards to be free of pests and disease.  The summer temperatures up to 15 January 2007 were not too high.  The Paarl region is currently experiencing very high temperatures (exceeding 36 ºC) which in turn will cause grapes to ripen at a steady rate.  All and all it seems that the harvest season started a week earlier and at this stage it seems that the season will be completed 7 – 10 days earlier than usual.  The quality of the grapes currently being received at the cellar is of outstanding quality and thus promises that 2007 will be a year known for its outstanding grape quality which in turn ensures high quality wine for the consumer.