NEXT CAB OFF THE RANK

The Pinot Noir has been picked, along with the Chardonnay and the Sauvignon Blanc. They are all happily fermenting in the winery. At this early stage, the Pinot looks like the standout.
Meanwhile, we wait for the Bordeaux varieties to ripen fully. This year, the Merlot could be the star. It often shows a mean edge, as if it is rebuking us for planting it in the Yarra Valley--but this year, there is a long tannin profile, loads of flavour and a genuine richness.
Recent rain has helped these later varieties withstand the rather difficult and dry conditions. The vines look refreshed and I predict that within two weeks we will have completed harvest.
By the way, that's a bunch of Cabernet Sauvignon in the photo. Doesn't it look great?