It’s Hot and It’s Dry!

June 25, 2014

It’s no secret California is in the midst of a very serious drought, and for us as farmers; this is something we have to deal with every day. Over the course of our 30 plus years making wine in Paso, there have been many tough years but this year is proving to be the most challenging we have ever faced.

Due to multiple years of below average rainfall, the soil is very dry making it difficult to efficiently water the grapes. When the soil is this dry it tends to quickly suck away any water it comes into contact with. This makes it challenging for the grapes to get the water they need before it is gone. At this point we are taking it day by day and closely monitoring our vineyards to make sure we are using water as efficiently as possible.

Like last year, we will most likely experience an early harvest season. The hot, dry weather promotes ripening and by the looks of it around here you would think it is already August. It is too early to predict with any certainty but I would guess we are going to have an early harvest with smaller yields. The last two harvests produced significant yields so a small year is something we can definitely deal with if it comes to that.

The most important thing we can take away from this drought is knowledge and appreciation for the dynamics of nature. It has always been our goal to farm as sustainably as possible and to work with Mother Nature. We have been fortunate enough to have many amazing harvest seasons and you can’t take any of them for granted. We are constantly learning, improving and growing with the hopes of continuing the Paso wine making tradition.

As always, I will keep you posted on the upcoming harvest and we will continue to keep our heads up and give it all we’ve got! “When the going gets tough, the tough get going,” and we are one tough bunch of Beavers!

Cheers,

Luke

Zinfusion Has Done It Again!

June 11, 2014

Zinfusion has done it yet again and we couldn’t be more excited! Last week we found out our 2012 Zinfandel Zinfusion Reserve had won “Best of Class” along with Gold Medal honors at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition. As if that wasn’t enough, a few days later we were informed it also took Gold at the Sunset International Wine Competition! We are so blessed to have such a wonderful winemaking staff that continues to produce amazing wines year after year. The Zinfusion is one of our most awarded wines and one of our most consistent.

The blend in this years’ Zinfusion is comprised of 86% Zinfandel from our Cobble Creek and Whale Rock Vineyards and 14% Petite Sirah giving it a wonderfully round, smooth and fruit driven body. This wine has always been one of my favorites and this vintage does not disappoint. More than anything, I love how smooth and balanced this wine is. You can pair it with food or drink it all on its own. Mmmmm

Now that summer is upon us there is definitely no shortage of entertainment and good times at Castoro. We’ve got Lazy Local concerts, SLO Folks Concerts, Beaverstock, Hot Summer Soul Night, a 46 West Winery Block Party and much more! Even with so much going on, you can always find a nice tranquil spot at the tasting room to relax, picnic and enjoy the beauty of Paso Robles wine country. One of my favorite new additions to the tasting room is a beautiful set of outdoor wicker furniture that provides such a comfortable and inviting experience amongst the vines. My brother Max has been busy making custom wine barrel side tables and coffee tables to accompany the furniture and he has really done a great job.

Next time you are in the area, stop on by, get comfortable and treat yourself to a true Paso Wine Experience. For upcoming events: http://www.castorocellars.com/events

Cheers,

Luke