Our annual pruning of the 'Members' Block' Ruby Cabernet was held on Saturday 1 August and what a stunning day it was! After the disastrous last two picking days it was fantastic to see that someone from above was smiling sweetly.

The day was simply glorious and most participants were stripping down to T shirts by about 11 am. With some guidance by Scott Ling, our Vineyard manager, and a few underlings…namely Matt Burton and Chris Sharpe (only ‘Winemakers'), everyone did a marvelous job and we had the ‘Members' Block' completely pruned by about 12.30 pm.

On our return from the vineyard, Robert from Bel Posto Café/Restaurant had a wonderful spicy hot pot and crusty bread ready for us to enjoy, plus of course the obligatory glass of Wandin Valley wine, organised by Dave from the Cellar Door.

The highlight of the afternoon, apart from the unruly game of Boccé (won by the Wandin Valley staff!!), was a vertical tasting of current & previous vintages of the Ruby Cabernet. It was interesting to compare how one vintage to the next can be so different yet still come from the same vines & block. There were certainly some difference of opinions as to which vintage was the favourite, but needless to say it was a great experience and we have to thank both Matt Burton and Chris Sharpe for taking us though the wines. Unfortunately we have now completely SOLD OUT of all Ruby Cabernet (except for a few dozen 2005 Magnums), so we now have to wait for the 2009 vintage which may not be ready until sometime mid next year.

This year we decided to add a second day of activities, and held the inaugural WANDIN VALLEY ANNUAL GOLF CHALLENGE on Sunday the 2nd of August. It was a two man Ambrose and was held at Cypress Lakes. I sat this one out… not known for my golfing prowess. A number of Wandin Valley staff members as well as Cork Club members and their friends enjoyed the day immensely and have all agreed that it MUST continue as a yearly event.

The winners on the day were Scott Ling and Phil Wilson. Congratulations guys!

Michelle Ashpole