Erl does it again

Erl Happ, above, often described as a nonconformist, rebel and dissenter is also the consummate winemaker.

His finesse has been rewarded with some notable successes in 2010 and again in the 2011 Perth Royal Wine Show.

In 2010 Happs Wines was the Most Successful Exhibitor in both the Open class and the Under 300 tonne Production class.

The swag of 2011 Perth Royal Show medals included the Trophy for Best Cabernet Sauvignon of Vintages 2008, 2009, 2010 and commercial classes nationally.

The same wine, Happs 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon also took the trophy for Best WA Dry Red Table Wine.

Both the Happs and Three Hills labeled merlot and chardonnay impressed the judges, the Three Hills merlot topping its class.

True to form, Erl ‘does it his way’ in managing the vines that produce his stunning successes.

He can ripen cabernet sauvignon to perfection in the misty Karridale region where others fail repeatedly.

Erl said, “If one uses standard practices in the cool, moist environment of Karridale, cabernet is tainted with green flavours even though the fruit may be picked in late April or May.

‘Standard practice’ being heavily managed narrow, vertical canopies that are irrigated and green, before machine harvesting.

“We like to see the leaves go orange before we hand pick the fruit. “Sometimes it pays to be old fashioned.”