Summary
An average to good vintage, despite poor winter rains in 1998, a very hot, dry summer (which accelerated ripening) and wet conditions in late March and early April. Shiraz was exceptional and Cabernet Sauvignon was also very good, if a little advanced due to the heat. Merlot was also very good. Eden Valley Riesling stood out amongst the whites with excellent varietal character and acidity.
Highlights
Australian wine media attended the 1999 Barossa Vintage Festival and tasted more than 60 icon wines from 1948 to 1998, as part of the launch of the Barossa Vintage Classification.
The Barossa Winemakers hosted 95 international food and wine journalists to a Tasting Australia familiarisation at Jacob’s Creek and Seppeltsfield.
Honourboard
Vigneron of the Year – Michael McCarthy
Winemaker of the Year – Louisa Rose
Sources
SA Wine Grape Crush Survey, Vinehealth Australia and ‘Barossa Vintages: a wine history from 1842’, Peter Fuller
