With vintage time in the Southern Highlands in full swing, wine-lovers have crossed their fingers in hope of clear skies.
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In previous years picking has clashed with hazard reduction burning which can result in smoke damage.
Smoke taint can destroy the flavour of grapes and the eventual wine which results in undesirable characteristics, such as a smoky, burnt, ashy or medicinal taste.
Committee member of the Southern Highlands Food and Wine association, Mark Bourne, said that the RFS works closely with growers to minimise smoke taint.
Vitriculturist and cool climate specialist, Ben Brazenor, was positive about the quality of the vintage this year.
He stated that although it rained at a time that was not ideal, just as the early ripening fruit was ready to pick, the predicted dry weather and wind would lower the moisture levels in the grapes.
"The merlot especially is looking very good for this time of the harvest and in the Canyonleigh vineyards most of the riesling and pinot noir had been picked before the rains came," Mr Brazenor said.
Mr Bourne was pleased with the warm and dry Summer conditions which have resulted in a high quality vintage.
"The recent rain, although welcome, delayed picking by 10-days as the grapes had to accumulate sugars and flavours," Mr Bourne said.
Picking will continue for another four weeks as thick-skinned grapes like cabernet sauvignon, merlot and shiraz ripen.
According to a spokesperson from the RFS there are currently no plans for hazard reduction burns in the Southern Highlands.
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