Haere Ra 2024: Waitaki
Te Kano Winemaker Dave Sutton looks at an excellent growing season against the pressure of competing land use.
The Good
Weather conditions this vintage favoured a spectacular ripening period. Rainfall was far below average in January, February and March, with plenty of sun to boot.
The Bad
Yields were low, perhaps because of last year's funny business (Cyclone Gabrielle). Instances of sunburn and dehydration were high - the Batch vineyard team went through exactly 4.5 litres of sunscreen, not to mention the aloe vera gel.
The Awesome
Here's what to expect from the 2024 vintage from Batch and perhaps Waiheke in general: the Bordeaux is inky and purple and plummy with bold tannins; the Syrah is perfumed and electric purple with amazing structure; the Chardonnay shows bright citrus flavours and punchy acidity. This was a quality over quantity vintage, so get 'em while ya can.
