Half Way There! Harvest Update #3
We are half way there and we can see the light at the end of the tunnel! Niels told me confidently this morning that we are now half way through harvest and we are on track for a smooth finish (just like our chardonnay). After the initial heat spell that had us back on our heels and up to our ears in ripe fruit, things have calmed down a bit and the winery has regained a bit of sanity.
The reason for things slowing down, as always, is the weather. In the past week we have begun to feel the presence of fall and the cooler nights followed by milder days have brought the ripening rate to a much more manageable pace. Luckily, there hasn’t been any frost accompanying the cooler nights so our grapes haven’t been at risk. (fingers crossed)
This week marks the first of our Merlot and all of our whites have now been picked except for a small lot of Whale Rock Grenache Blanc. In the last blog I mentioned that we had picked our first ever Falanghina and Niels told me this morning that we are now fermenting the juice (two barrels) in hopes of bottling a small batch. If all goes to plan we should have 50 cases or so of this unique wine when it is all said and done.
In the world of spirits, Mikel has continued to work away at the still and definite progress has been made. We have made some Chenin Blanc Brandy and Orange Muscat Brandy that is very tasty, almost too tasty, and it just goes to show what a little time and dedication can get you!
With October here, Harvest Festival is right around the corner, and as usual we have an amazing weekend planned. Friday night will feature a kick-off party with live music by Resination and a catered dinner by Alex’s BBQ. To view the menu click HERE and for tickets click HERE. Saturday and Sunday we will host an open house with grape stomping, barrel samples, food and live music by Soul Sauce. October is one of the best times of year to visit the Central Coast and this year’s festival will be one to remember.
Stay Tuned!
Cheers,
Luke
