A wonderful vintage

Apr 9, 2026

by Duncan Harris in Organic Vineyard

Challenges and Opportunities at a Perth Organic Winery

The 2026 vintage in Baskerville, WA, presented a challenge for Swan Valley winemakers. While the harvest remained consistent, the usual hot summer weather patterns were abated and careful planning to maintain quality and efficiency. Here is the vintage report.

Good rainfall and a few hot days

The 2026 vintage in Baskerville unfolded under largely favourable conditions, beginning with average rainfall during winter and the early growing season. This provided solid moisture reserves in the soil, supporting healthy early vine growth. However, a notably wet spring introduced low downy mildew pressure across the Swan Valley. Many vineyards, including ours, experienced larger crops—increasing yields with good fruit acid balance.

Rainfall dropped off markedly in December, with just 10 mm recorded, and continued dry through January. These dry conditions were not particularly challenging and were consistent with patterns seen in earlier low-rainfall vintages.

While Perth’s lowest annual rainfall was in 2006, Baskerville reached its own minimum more recently in 2023, recording just 448 mm. In contrast, the 2025 calendar year brought a much-improved total of 704 mm, closer to long-term averages.

As summer progressed, a series of hot days in January accelerated ripening, prompting a later harvest than the previous years. The combination of mild stress, good canopy retention, and good crop load contributed to concentrated flavours and steady ripeness—a rewarding outcome in a season that demanded vigilance but rewarded preparedness.

Normal Harvest and Action

With vintage arriving 3 weeks later than the previous average, growers had to respond quickly.

White grape varieties were harvested in early January, ensuring optimal flavour development and acidity retention.

Red grape varieties, including Shiraz, followed suit in mid-February, showcasing deep colour and promising characteristics. Despite the challenges posed by the good weather, the dry-grown fruit was clean and flavoursome.

The timeline forced growers to be on their toes, with tank space limited due to the large crop.

At Harris Organic Vineyard, we picked an increased amount of grapes, totalling 12 tonnes. The first pick was on the 17th of January, marking the beginning of our weekly picking session for a rewarding period of activity.

Our last pick, on the 16th of March, brought the season to a close. This culminated in a harvest marked by dedication from all concerned.

Silver Linings in a Demanding Season

Amidst the grapes, there were clear silver linings. Although harvest commenced later than usual, with fruit picked into February and March, the timing proved advantageous, particularly for fortified wines. The grapes reached optimal sugar levels under clear, dry skies, allowing for the development of rich, concentrated flavours ideal for spirit fortification.

Though taxing, the heat spikes in December offered benefits when carefully managed. For those monitoring canopy health and soil moisture closely, the conditions led to wines with depth, structure, and pronounced varietal character.

The few hot days hastened physiological ripening, and while vigilance was required to avoid sunburn and dehydration, the result was a vintage marked by precision and intensity—qualities valued in both table and fortified production.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the trials of the 2026 vintage, one thing remains certain: the ever-changing nature of climate demands adaptability. While each season presents its own set of obstacles, it is through ingenuity that we continue to push the boundaries of possibility.

In the years to come, the lessons learned from this vintage will serve as a guide for future endeavours, reminding us of the inherent beauty and unpredictability of grape growing and winemaking.

Raise a glass to toast the fruits of our labour. Let us also raise our gaze to the future, where new challenges and opportunities await.

Vintage Report 2026: What a wonderful vintage, One Grape at a Time.