The growing season began with a late budburst after a relatively cold winter with reasonable rainfall. The cool spring which followed resulted in some uneven flowering and fruit set, and generally lower than average yields. We experienced a significant (and unusual) rain event mid-January which was timely due to the later season, and this was followed by some fine, mild weather to get vintage underway. There was a complete lack of Marri blossom leading up to and during harvest which meant that bird pressure was extreme! Bird-netting was absolutely vital. The cooler ripening conditions did result in amazing flavour intensity and acid retention in whites (Chardonnay in particular). There was a minor rain event coupled with high humidity mid-March which presented some challenges requiring careful fruit selection; however, this gave way to some beautiful weather right through until late April. The 2019 Xanadu Chardonnay is predominantly Estate grown in the Wallcliffe sub-region, with 70% of the blend being made with fruit sourced from our Stevens Road and Boodjidup vineyards. The remaining 30% was sourced from a mature Wilyabrup vineyard.