It is commonly thought that a “stressed” vine produces the best wine with the most intense flavors. This train of thought is great marketing for certain terrains and climates. But, the jury is still really out on if there is much truth to this. Research, as well as Kyle and my Dad, point to the success of creating great wine to a “balanced” vine. It is important, especially in the great growing climate that we have, to manipulate the vines throughout the season in order to create balance. The right level of crop, the right amount of foliage, the right amount of water are a just few factors that we work to control each year. At this time of the year, the crews are busy shoot thinning. Each block is shoot thinned according to it’s age, variety, vigor and growing history to name a few factors. This is the simple process of removing some of the young tender shoots to begin to control some of the above named factors….crop level, foliage vigor as well as air circulation and sunlight. And the point is of course, great fruit which is essential to great wine! So, next time you have a glass of your favorite wine, appreciate all the hands that have been involved just creating the starting point…..the winegrapes!
