Extremely dry weather prevailed throughout Spring, with heatwave conditions experienced nationally, and some of the lowest rainfall figures we have seen from September to January. Yields were down slightly across all varieties producing stronger varietal flavours early, giving fruit with a classic degree of ripeness and flavour with bright balance of natural acidity.

A brief spell of rain in the last days of January caused a break in processing and helped to soak up the cracks in the parched vineyard soils. Stable sunny conditions returned and lasted for the next week allowing us to complete our Hunter harvest in the first days of February. At harvest all red grapes had achieved full ripeness, with very rich colour and tannin development.

A wine that expresses the signiature Kester elements of dense, blood-plum colour, racy flavor energy and seamless French oak integration. When tasting you will be greeted by aromas of inky aniseed, cassis and dark spiced chocolate; on the palate these characters combine to create a finely woven tapestry of gentle black fruits, dry spice, and deluxe French oak. Underpinning this dynamic flavor profile is The Kester's rich, silken tannin character supporting superb balance and length. The quality of fruit from these 85-year old vines is obvious and commands cellaring; we recommend 20 years if you can resist the instant charm.