We have tried various grape varieties since we started.
Initially we planted Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Chardonnay, and a selection from a local hobby grower identified as Pinotage. Unfortunately only the Pinotage identified being hardy enough for our exposure. In more recent times we are trialing some small planting of Gewürztraminer and Albarino. Interestingly we had the "Pinotage" DNA tested and it would appear it is Plantet, a Siebel selection bred for cold conditions. While we are not cold the thick hairy leaves and very tight bunches explains why it does so well in our very exposed situation. We harvested last week of April 2017. Because of winds during fruit set and a cool summer we had a disappointing harvest. We tried to leave the fruit on as long as possible to get the correct sugar/acid balance but in doing so we lost probably 50kg per day to birds despite covers over the last two weeks. Lesson learnt is to pick early and adjust in the winery. The fruit harvested will be turned into a Rose. Harvest 2018This year the weather was all messed up and we were at least two weeks advanced on normal. However even more adversity came in the shape of the cyclone Gita which came at us from the west and desiccated all the North Western facing leaves. Very fortunately the grapes hung on, desiccated a bit and so we have harvested on the 26th and 27th of March. Brix was only 19.5 but the weather news we not looking good for the next few weeks so we grabbed the window. Yield was average but we got off some very high quality berries.
Work is well underway for a new Cellar Door. This is situated next to the Function centre off the lower carpark. It has its own lawn area and outdoors seating as well as indoors. We hope to be able to welcome you there within a few weeks. Wine Cellar is now Launched |
PeterWe would like as owners to keep you up to date with progress at Okurukuru ArchivesCategories
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