August, September and October were slightly warmer than average with significantly fewer frosts in September and October than would normally be expected.
November and December continued to be significantly warmer and settled resulting in a near perfect flowering and fruit set.
Fruit set was unusually consistent across all blocks. Berry size was large and comparable to or larger than 2006. Bunch sizes were large, requiring the removal of many bunches to reduce crop levels per vine.
February rainfall was significantly higher than average throughout Central Otago, increasing the risk Powdery Mildew and Botrytis has risen significantly.
30 March 2011 the first grapes were picked . Clone 777 from Block 5, on drought tolerant root stock Richter 110, was the first away. 2011 is our the earliest harvest to date.
2011 was a difficult vintage in Central Otago due to the weather, however the Alexandra sub-region, with its lower rainfall, produced some of the best quality grapes in Central Otago.