2013 VINTAGE REPORT

2012/2013 Growing Season - The harvest season was particularly late and about two weeks shorter than usual. Prolonged winter conditions continued in some areas up until September, followed by a cool spring, which delayed bud burst by 7 to 14 days. The cold, wet weather conditions ensured even bud burst, as well as the accumulation of water supplies that would allow the vineyards to cope with the warmer conditions later in the season.The vineyards had good growth in ideal dry weather conditions during the flowering and berry set period, although it occurred later than usual. Early cultivars ripened later than usual but an extremely dry, warm December resulted in the late cultivars being ripened at the normal time. The harvest was therefore taken in over a shorter period of time, which added to immense pressure in terms of intakes and cellar capacity.

Ideal weather conditions during the harvest season – moderate day temperatures, cool night temperatures and no prolonged rain of heat waves – had a positive impact on wine grape quality and establishing good colour and flavour. It was also a particularly healthy year and diseases, pests and rot only occurred later in the season, while warm, dry weather conditions and effective disease and pest control resulted in minimal losses.

Producers, viticulturists and winemakers are excited about a promising crop in terms of quality. The moderate harvest season contributed to intense colour, exceptional flavour and good structure in the red cultivars, especially for Pinotage appearing good in terms of size and quality. Throughout the industry winemakers anticipate excellent fruity and tropical white wines with fresh characteristics.

LADY ANNE BARNARD WINES AWARDED AT VINALIES 2013

Lady Anne Barnard Sauvignon blanc 2012 and Syrah 2011 received the prestigious honour of being the only South African wines to be awarded at the annual Vinalies Internationales competition held in Paris in March 2013. Both the wines received Silver medals. The wines were judged by 7 wine professionals, the panel included at least 2 French judges and also minimum 3 judges from other countries as set down by the rules of the OIV (Organisation Internationale de la Vigne et du Vin). This is the second time these wines were recognised by at an international competition, the Sauvignon blanc 2012 received Silver Outstanding and the Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon Silver each at the London International Wine Challenge 2012

LADY ANNE BARNARD RATED +90 IN TORONTO STAR, CANADA

Gord Stimmell, the Toronto Star's wine critic and winner of the Drinks Ontario Achievement Award 2011 rated Lady Anne Barnard Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 +90. His notes on the wine "Great to see South Africa step into my winner’s circle. Cassis, lilacs and vanilla aromas. The mellow, quite elegant flavours showcase blackberry, cedar and a hint of tar."

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