Vintage 2024: Wairarapa
The 2024 vintage could be one of Wairarapa's greatest yet, says Foley Wines winemaker John Kavanagh, who heads the winery team at Te Kairanga.
But it's still the "toughest" she's seen in her 20 years in the industry. The reguon recorded 106.2mm of rainfall in February, which is 171% of the LTA, according to VineFacts.
"Consistent rain events put much pressure on vineyard teams and vines," Jannine says, noting that organic growers like Urlar were under the pumps, with a labour-intensive summer. "After Cyclone Gabrielle we just have to remember many growers further up the motu have had a much more difficult time."
Speaking on 9 March, as Wairarapa kicked off harvest early due to weather pressure, she says Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are looking good, along with later ripening Pinot Noir clones. "If we get some sunshine for autumn that would be ideal."
Jannine, who is co-chair of the Wairarapa Winegrowers Association, says the region continues to be challenged with labour shortages and lack of accommodation, but it was heartening to see international travellers back for harvest. "Disruptions have become a bit of the new norm but being more organised and good planning helps to mitigate that some of the time."
