Like the year before, we entered the 2025 growing season with winter rainfalls well below average. Long-range forecasts promising good spring rains proved false, and instead dry conditions continued and heightened the risk of frosts. Those concerns were realised with several frosts in early September, then a devastating frost on 17 September felt across the region and beyond. Recovery was patchy with secondary buds, and whilst dry conditions continued throughout spring and summer, thankfully hot bursts were only short-lived. With water in short supply, we were again reminded of the benefits of a carefully curated compost and mulching programme. Harvest was very compact, commenced with Riesling on 28 February and finished with Cabernet and Shiraz on 27 March. Yields were low, but quality was exceptional, with Riesling, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon standouts.