The 2024 growing season in the Hunter Valley was defined by a sustained period of dry weather that led to small crops but wines of high quality. The lack of rain, coupled with hot and windy conditions during the critical flowering period, further contributed to the low yields. These factors resulted in accelerated ripening, bringing about one of the earliest starts to harvest in living memory. Thanks to the dry weather, viticulturists and winemakers enjoyed a stress-free harvest period, albeit compressed, with harvest concluding in the first half of February, approximately three weeks earlier than 2023.
Yields across the Hunter Valley were down by 30-40%, with the regions famed old-vine Semillon blocks affected the most. However, winemakers are particularly excited about Semillon, which this year shows an added depth and richness similar to the 2014 vintage.
The other key white varietals of the region, Verdelho and Chardonnay, exhibit full flavours and soft acids, making them highly approachable upon release.
Among the red varietals, Shiraz stands out as the star of the 2024 Hunter Valley vintage. The Shiraz wines from this year display a remarkable intensity and concentration, characteristics typically reserved for top quality vintages. The lower yields have resulted in wines with deep colour, robust tannins, and rich, layered flavours.
Chris Tyrrell, President of Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association says, “Overall, the region is incredibly happy with the quality of wines from 2024. A lower yielding, early harvest gave us wines of great intensity and flavours that will be great drinking on release but also age well.”
The 2024 vintage in the Hunter Valley is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the region’s viticulturists and winemakers. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the outcome has been wines of exceptional quality and character.
