Grape supply ‘on a knife edge’ (NZ)

Central Otago’s grape supply is “balanced on a knife edge” as growers expect a high demand for this year’s harvest. Central Otago viticulturist and wine industry consultant Timbo Deaker said a fungal infestation in the Cromwell basin and Gibbston area because of rain had caused “bunch rot” and wiped out some of the grape supply. About 40mm of rain fell on March 11 and the lack of wind and overcast days afterwards caused grapes to contract botrytis and become unusable, Mr Deaker said. The good news from the rain was that demand for Central Otago Pinot Noir was “exceptionally” high, reports The Southland Times.