Australia

Barossa Valley

1979
96Grapeyear
legendary Configuration

Barossa Valley 1979 Vintage Report

Defining the 1979 vintage in Barossa Valley requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.

The cycle began with a harmonious flowering period. Warm days (avg 18°C) allowed for an even fruit set, establishing the potential for a generous crop.

Summer turned up the intensity. With 14 days soaring above 35°C, the vines faced a stress test. Combined with a lack of rainfall (only 174mm total), this led to hydric stress that halted ripening in younger vines, though old vines with deep roots persevered.

The season concluded with a pristine harvest window. With negligible rain (5mm), pickers could wait for perfect phenolic maturity, harvesting each block at its absolute zenith.

**Style:** Rich, opulent, and structured wines built for the long haul.

About Barossa Valley

Home to some of the world's oldest vines, Barossa is synonymous with big, bold Shiraz. These wines are known for their rich blackberry fruit, chocolate notes, and velvety texture.

Climatic Blueprint

Growing Degree Days (GDD)

1874

Total Rainfall

174 mm

Sunshine Hours

2413 hrs

Diurnal Shift

11.8 °C

Frost Days

0 days

Average Temperature

19 °C

Historical Context (9 Years)

Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.

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