Harvest Ahead of Schedule

When looking at the past growing seasons and comparing them to this year, one thing has become glaringly obvious. We are about two weeks ahead! This means almost every grape is ripening two weeks early. You would think that means we could let the fruit easily hang on the vine a little longer, and normally you would be right. Due to the lack of rain, drosophila, or fruit flies, have begun to take advantage of the heat. If left unchecked, they spread rot like a plague, often ruining entire blocks of beautiful fruit. Luckily, Freddy has a keen eye and was able to intervene long before they could become a problem.

With all our white varietals picked, Freddy and his crew are hoping to finish up the last of the Tannat, Nebbiolo, Petit Verdot and Tinta Cão next week. But, even with all of our red vinifera coming in early, this still leaves the Norton. It’s the largest pick of every season, 40 acres to be exact. Harvest on Norton alone typically takes around 5 weeks. If the weather holds out, Freddy and his crew are looking at finishing this harvest season about 2 weeks early. Here’s hoping!