In 20 years time, when wine enthusiasts open a bottle of 2020 Fallen Giants reserve shiraz, the vintage will be remembered for all of the right reasons.
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Like every winery across the Grampians region, Halls Gap's Fallen Giants has closed its cellar door to the public due to government-enforced shutdowns.
Unfortunately, the mandate came as the winery began picking this year's grapes.
Director Rebecca Drummond said mitigating the strict social distancing guidelines made for a memorable vintage.
"It's been a pretty crazy time for every winery across Australia," she said.
"Yield is down for everyone in the region - probably about 50 per cent.
"Fortunately the quality is still quite good."
In 2013 and 2018, isolated periods of cold and wet weather reduced yields across the Grampians, and reduced the flowering shiraz and pinot noir grape varieties.
"Add to the mix the COVID-19 pandemic and you have yourself an unforgettable vintage," she added.
"Luckily, we have not been affected like some parts of Australia, where bushfires and the smoke taint is a real issue."
The vigneron said because the federal government allowed agriculture to operate without any restrictions, grape pickers were able to work at the vineyard.
"We did a lot of handpicking this year with a little assistance from our machinery," she said.
"Our main focus was making sure we limited how many people were working in any given row, and making sure they wore protective equipment."
The director said the picked grapes will soon be sent to Best's Great Western, where Justin Purser will create this year's vintage of shiraz, riesling and cabernet sauvignon.
"Because the yield was down, we won't release any rosé this year," she said.
"We are now focused on selling our wine online.
"We are feeling for our customers, not only in the region but across the world."
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