The 2008 vintage broke yield records across the state, partly due to the expanse of maturing vineyards and somewhat owing to the sustained stretch of perfect weather during the growing season. The long running drought continued, though clever irrigation following the infrequent rains permitted viticulturalists to optimise their crop levels. The dry and extended vintage period diminished any grapevine diseases and allowed the grapes to slowly ripen without stress. Harvest for grapes destined for sparkling wine began in the second week of March, one to two weeks earlier than average, though the vintage finished well into May for the late ripening varieties such as cabernet sauvignon and shiraz. Pinot noir was generally hand-picked in first two weeks of April. Whites from the 2008 Tasmanian vintage are fresh with great mineral acid structure, while the reds are showing elegant fruit and refined tannins.
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