We returned from our extended break in the USA over Christmas and New Year yesterday where we enjoyed some cooler weather than what we had here in Armstrong. We are lucky to not have been impacted by fires in this area as our colleagues in the Adelaide Hills have or other parts of the country.
With cooler weather lasting longer than usual before the really hot and dry conditions in December, fruit set was low so our crops will be down this year. While this is not great for quantity, it can often mean that the quality is even better. Because of less bunches competing with each other easing the ripening and giving fuller flavour later in the season. If our hungry natives leave find food elsewhere and we continue to have access to water, Vintage 2020 should be ok.
We are thinking of everyone who has been impacted by the fires both in Victoria and the rest of Australia. In addition to our $5 donation to the Victorian Bushfire appeal on every bottle of wine sold in January, our own personal donation, we also plan to visit some of the affected areas when appropriate. Our area is safe for visiting now and encourage you to visit, but when the fire affected areas are safe I would encourage everyone to plan a trip there to spend some holiday money in their area. As the call out says “Take an esky and buy food, fill up with fuel, stay in accommodation or caravan parks, drink at hotels, eat out”. All of these things will help rebuild business and communities in these areas.
That’s all from us for now!