GRAPE growers in the region are rejoicing at the prospect of getting their feet wet.
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Soaking rains have fallen across the region, giving many growers a positive outlook for the next vintage.
Viticulturist for Campbells Wines at Rutherglen Malcolm Campbell said the rains would help boost soil moisture levels in preparation for the next crop.
His company has permanent moisture meters installed across its vineyards and also uses portable meters to monitor specific areas.
He said monitoring had showed moisture was slowly filtering down through the soil profile, however, it was yet to reach the maximum depth of the permanent meters at 900mm.
“It has been a good start to the season but we are going to want a fair bit more rain yet,” Mr Campbell said.
“All the meters are showing that the sub-soil moisture levels are building but it will take some time to get it down to depth.”
He said the past harvest had been down significantly because of the dry conditions.
Managing director for Gapsted Wines Shayne Cunningham said while vines were largely dormant at this time of the year, good soil moisture was important to ensure the next crop.
“The conditions are looking much better, however, there has still been no run-off which many vineyards rely on to fill dams which they irrigate from,” Mr Cunningham said.
“Our vines have really struggled this year and yields were down about 60 per cent, so we are looking for a better crop this year.
“It is good to see the country is looking better in general; this is a good opportunity for agriculture to set up for next year.”
