New Zealand's 2001 harvest has produced a smaller crop than in 2000 but the quality looks to be outstanding. 71,000 tonnes of grapes were harvested, 9100 tonnes less than in 2000. "The reduced harvest primarily reflects cool weather during flowering in some areas, leading to uneven fruit set in those regions", commented New Zealand Wine Institute Chief Executive, Philip Gregan. All regions were successful although special mention must go to Central Otago where growing conditions were close to ideal. Warm and very stable weather for flowering in December meant an even and excellent fruit set. January and February were relatively cool but the vintage was made by the hot and dry autumn. Matt Dicey, winemaker at Mt Difficulty, and Blair Walker of Felton Road both believe that the resulting wines are potentially the finest they have ever produced.