Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association president Andrew Margan said conditions were perfect when picking started on January 18, and although it has delayed picking at some sites, last week’s rain did not provide too much cause for concern.

“It has been going really well with the fruit showing a lovely flavour,” Mr. Margan said.

“There is promise of a nice Chardonnay, with white grapes being picked for sparkling wine, Semillon and Verdelho.”

“The weather before Christmas wasn’t very good, and puts a bit of disease pressure on us, but it’s dried out a lot since and it really is perfect picking conditions – not too hot.

“Rain can delay ripening, but we didn’t end up with that much, so we’re not that concerned, but we would be if it continues, so fingers crosses it doesn’t hit us too hard.”

Mr. Margan said it will take about five weeks to pick all the fruit, and that local vineyards expect to get a lot of backpackers and international winemakers in for the harvest.