As of Tuesday a high chance of rain was predicted over the central tablelands in the next 23 of 28 days.

About 40 millimetres of rain across the region last week added to what has been described as a cool and wet season.

However Bunnamagoo winemaker Robert Black said recent rain should not cloud local grape growers’ judgement.

“If you look at the rainfall recorded over Mudgee for 2012 it is below average which tells us it really hasn’t been that wet of a season,” he said.

The overwhelming statement is those vineyards which have been managed well will thrive.

“Grape growers who have looked after canopies and kept up their spray programs should be able to manage disease pressures in the coming weeks and hopefully Mudgee should have a clean crop.

“Really we are in a far better place than many other regions that have been exposed to wetter conditions.”

He said added predicted rain may mean vineyard managers think about picking their grapes a little early as flavours will still be strong and it would potentially avoid onset of botrytis.

NSW Wine Industry Association president and local winemaker David Lowe said he believes 2012 is a year for whites.

“Given the season we’ve had I think whites will be the success as they tend to develop and be picked earlier,” he said.

“But really the overwhelming statement is those vineyards which have been managed well will thrive.”

Mr Black agreed the mild summer had given a chance for white varietals to shine and the coming weeks would determine the quality of reds.

More rain and further cool conditions may see a slight delay in grapes ripening but is not expected to be detrimental to well managed sites, particularly those at higher altitude.