2022 Vintage Report
The 2022 vintage at KAHIWI unfolded with remarkable consistency, reminiscent of classic Central Otago vintages like 2007 and 2014. The absence of extreme weather events allowed for unhurried growth and optimal ripening conditions, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and balance.
Early Season (September - November 2022): Late August saw sap flow resuming, with northwesterly winds heralding spring's arrival. September brought light and warmth, facilitating early, uniform bud break. While mostly calm and warm, October saw a southerly storm on the 11th, bringing 35mm of rain and low-level snow. Mid-month frost risks kept us vigilant, particularly in our lower blocks.
November began with another frost threat but quickly warmed, with temperatures approaching 30°C. The month ended with significant rain, setting a pattern that would continue into the new year.
Mid-Season (December - January 2023): Bookended by rain events, flowering experienced no adverse events from inception through it’s completion in the first week of December. January saw steady progression with sunny days and cool nights, promoting even ripening and balanced growth. A single rain event on the 19th provided welcome moisture in an otherwise dry month.
Late Season and Harvest (February - March 2023): February began with a strong wind event, followed by heavy rain. However, the month settled into a pattern of gently declining temperatures, perfect for final ripening. March remained remarkably stable, with optimal harvest conditions allowing us to focus on fine-tuning our picking decisions for peak ripeness and flavor development.
Winemaking: The 2022 vintage's consistency allowed for a measured, unhurried approach in the winery. The balanced fruit encouraged us to explore subtle variations in fermentation and maturation techniques, aiming to fully express the nuances of this exceptional year.
The 2022 vintage at KAHIWI stands as a testament to the potential of our site under ideal conditions. These wines promise to showcase the purity and elegance that define the best of Central Otago Pinot Noir.