2004 / 2005 was a frustrating growing season in Hawke’s Bay. Conditions were ideal for flowering in November but December was unseasonably cool and this slowed vine development. January and February were warm and dry allowing excellent flavour development in the grapes. Heavy rains in March and intermittent rain in April made for challenging harvest conditions. The pleasing consequence of this unusual growing season, was we experienced early development of flavours and tannins before high sugars, so our wines have ripe flavours and structure without excessive alcohol. Our Pinotage was picked 12th April 2005.