This was the first vintage for us (Drew and Raegan) since taking over the winemaking responsibilities from David Noon in October the previous year.
As nerve racking as it seemed at the time, the vintage of 1997 was an easy one for beginners. After surviving the first few months running the business, the harvest was upon us and we were into it boots and all! The record-breaking week of heat in February of 1997 (8 days in a row over 38°C, the hottest since 1938) clearly marked the wines from this vintage.
This resulted in wines with lower levels of acidity that come across in a softer, fuller-bodied style. The secret to the success of the 1997 harvest was the extended period of mild, sunny weather experienced after the February heat wave, which was ideal for ripening grapes.
Photo: Family lends a hand on picking days, left to right Philippa, Steph, Vicki (Drew’s sisters) and mum Nerida.
Noon Winery supports the responsible service of alcohol. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or obtain alcohol on behalf of, a person under the age of 18 years.
SA Liquor Licensing Act 1997, Section 113. Liquor Must Not Be Supplied To Persons Under 18.