It's the dog days of August, but harvest season is almost upon us!  A quick report on all the happenings while we still have time:

From the Vineyard:

Yes, it's just about time for the red bins to hit the vineyard rows!  Just like kids heading back to school, this time of year has an energy all to its own.  Excitement, nerves, weather forecasts, and long hours are ahead and we can't wait!  

Though it's been a horribly hot, wet, and humid August, we're happy to report that the mushrooms and toadstools are coming along just fine. ;)  

Seriously though, the potential for this year's harvest looks great.  The guys have done an outstanding job as usual in maintaining the vineyard with lots of hedging and leaf-pulling passes to keep the airflow moving and help fight the molds and diseases that all the damp weather brings.  

The first grapes to come in will be the Pinot Noir, to be used in our Rosé for the first time this year. The two Albariño blocks have a beautiful cropload for the first time, so that's exciting.  With about 50% of our vineyard being new additions over the last five years, this year could be our first time seeing what some of these new blocks can really do - fingers crossed!

From the Tasting House (and Pavilion):

Have you visited since we enclosed the Pavilion?  It feels like a totally different place!  With lounge seating, farm tables, chandeliers and air conditioning, it is the perfect place to enjoy a glass on a hot day.  

We have a beautiful Nelson County soapstone tasting bar in there as well; we've been staffing that bar on Saturdays for glass and bottle sales, with a few group tasting reservations held there as well. In the busy days of fall we'll welcome having that extra bar space!

Wine:

Merlot '13, Pinot Noir '14, Bacco '13 and the Rosé are almost gone.  If you like the lighter style reds, come and stock up before the Big Boy Reds of '14 hit the tasting list.

After Hours:

August 27th, 6-8:30 pm with everyone's favorite Jimmy O!  Food available from 106 Street Food Truck and SouthFork Food Truck.  Rain or shine, bring a blanket or a chair.  $5 admission for all over 18.

Sunset Saturday:

Labor Day Saturday September 3rd, 6-8pm. Your last chance for a beautiful evening in the vineyard for the year! Music by Benny Witt and food available from Cote-Rotie and Spiked food trucks.

Cottage Rental:

Do you have friends or family coming to visit this Fall? Are you a wine club member that would love to stay in the vineyard on a beautiful autumn evening?  We are now offering our Owners' Cottage at the Vineyard for vacation rental from time to time.  For more information on the  Cottage rental click here.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

As the busy fall season approaches,  please remember that advance reservations are needed for all groups of more than 6 people, whether for tasting or picnics with bottles outside.