Spring has sprung (and we hope it’s here to stay)
It is now officially spring time and it’s finally starting to feel that way too! We have had quite an interesting year once again and we are all very happy to have some 70 degree weather with sunshine to complement the green rolling hills. I know California is known for its dry golden hills, which we often have, but at the moment we are experiencing some beautiful green hills along with running rivers. The Estrella River, out by the winery, continues to flow as do many other small creeks and streams that haven’t flowed for years.
All of this moisture has been great for the grapes and right about now we are starting to see some bud break in our vineyards. The Chardonnay has experienced some budding and many other varietals are not far behind. It’s seems like just the other day I was writing about harvest and picking the grapes and now I am writing about the beginnings of the next batch of fruit! It really is a year round process!
Out at the winery we have a lot special projects going on and a lot of transitioning. Typically the spring and summer are considered slower times of the year at the winery, with the focus mainly on bottling, cleaning and prepping wines to be bottled, barreled etc. According to Tom, our Barbera and Petite Sirah are looking “exceptional” and our 09 Syrah is currently “very tasty.” I love hearing which wines Tom is particularly excited about because not only does it get me excited, it gets me curious to find out what he has got going on with these particular wines. Tom has been in the business for a long time and he tends to know which wines will be particularly special!
Let’s cross our fingers for a warm spring and a beautiful summer!
Cheers,
Luke
