Following MAGNUM #14’s editorial about the Federal Government’s anti-terrorism laws, responses to my concerns about sedition were interesting. Most were favourable, but two customers objected, pointing out that political comment is not MAGNUM’s purpose. After saying, “I believe you make great wines,” one requested removal from our mailing list which was disappointing. But that’s what democracy is all about: dissent and disagreement. Reports of court cases and disturbances around the world clearly show how restrictive “freedom of expression” has become. Limited freedom of expression eventually leads to limited freedom of choice. As Thomas Jefferson said, “Newspapers without Government is a far better proposition than Government without newspapers.”

MAGNUM itself is not a political mouthpiece for ‘Mike’s Crusade’. However, much to the chagrin of my marketing team, there are times when I use my editorial to raise issues that I feel should be debated. In this regard, I greatly appreciate the feedback so I thank those who have responded.

2006 was an extraordinary vintage. Things were bad until March when a wonderful burst of hot weather brought our whites on to a point where we were very happy. The whole district was badly affected by this unusual weather phenomenon, the coolest summer for years and the coldest December on record. Although it will be some time before we can assess its true impact on our reds, Steve James points out in his report in this issue that the autumn ripening period produced dividends that are encouraging indeed.

The wonderful reception given to “Girt by Sea”, our new red, has been most gratifying. The name started quite a debate. With Voyager Estate located in the south west corner of Australia at the confluence of the Indian and Southern oceans, producing the same climate characteristics as Bordeaux, there is much argument as to where these two oceans actually meet.

So we engaged in a little research. With the usual arguments amongst experts including the National Oceans Office of Australia – yes, there is one – research produced nothing definite. Even the “Limits of Oceans and Seas” published by the International Hydrographic Organisation seemed to have doubts. The Southern Ocean does indeed surround Australia but hundreds of kilometres to the south. The Great Australian Bight, according to this esteemed authority, is part of the Indian Ocean! So if you know anything different please contact us.

Oceans aside, try our “Girt by Sea” – a magnificent Cabernet, Merlot and Shiraz blend we’re very proud of.

Michael Wright

Proprietor