Vintage Diaries 2026

Published on: 5th March 2026

We’ve seen a very slow start to harvest, historically one of the latest starts of the season. A smooth run nonetheless, with healthy crop loads and low disease pressure thanks to the dilligence of our hard-working vineyard crew.⁠ Read on to find out more about the day-to-day operations, conditions and the team’s antics.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21

Vintage 2026 officially commenced with our first picking of Pinot Noir from our Y10 Block, destined for the base of our Yarrabank sparkling wines. The fruit was harvested in pristine condition, showcasing vibrant acidity and purity of flavour, providing an exceptional foundation for the elegance and finesse that define our Yarrabank collection.⁠

The crew had some fun on the harvester for the first time in 10 months.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 23

Monday featured pristine Chardonnay harvested from our premium Y23 Block. We’re seeing beautiful, well-balanced flavour and healthy crop loads coming through.⁠

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 24

Tuesday saw a storm pass through the Yarra Valley, captured by Tom Calder (vineyard operator) from our Spring Lane Vineyard. Not to worry, it cleared soon enough and operations continued as usual.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28

Some more premium chardonnay was harvested from our M04 Block this time, “looking like caviar” – Rod Harrison, Chief Viticulturist.


THURSDAY MARCH 5

It has been quiet for the past week with moderate, intermittent rainfall across the valley. Picking is predicted to pick back up over the weekend, with all of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir fruit entering the winery over the next couple of weeks. Although it is a late season, the team will be picking up speed quite quickly.

The tropical fronts have kept our vineyard team on their toes but some warm days now will take the pressure off and bring balance back to the crops.

Everyone is looking forward to the Oenological Escapades.

We’re looking forward to what’s to come – stay tuned via Facebook and Instagram.