In a year such as we’ve had in 2010, one would think that conditions for an outstanding vintage would be a given. Warm, dry weather with an associated reduction of disease pressure and an apparent decline in Japanese Beetle populations have put us a little closer to the ideal growing conditions enjoyed by our West Coast brethren. We have however, a new threat to wine quality that goes beyond our normal climatic challenges in the Mid Atlantic – the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.
Continue reading # 12- A Stinky Situation – Stink B...
Vineyard Update 9/29/10
It’s hard to believe that here we are, on the 29th of September, and I’m about to tell you that harvest is nearing its end. But here we are!
Continue reading #11- Vineyard Update 9/29/10
Today we picked the first grapes of the 2010 vintage. As usual, Seyval Blanc was the first variety to ripen. But we’re astonished at how early this year – it’s the earliest picking date in our winery’s history. Thus far, the earliest harvest for Seyval had been in 2009, and we picked on September 4th. All season you’ve heard us saying that the vineyard appeared to be running about two weeks ahead as a result of the hot, dry, weather. So far, these estimates are showing to be true.
Continue reading #10-Harvest Begins!
After a winter such as this past one, with record setting snowfall and heavy rains, one would think drought conditions in the summer months would be improbable. And one would be correct; if one were not a grapevine. While the water table and other reserves of drinking water currently remain at stable levels, the lack of rain combined with record high temperatures have created ‘drought like’ conditions in most vineyards in the area.
Continue reading #9- Drought Hits the East: Tom’s V...
