Winemaking Update
Ian Burch, Winemaker
It is a peaceful time of the year in the Willamette Valley. With the winter solstice behind us, the sun is beginning to peek out earlier. It has been a rainy winter so far and our soils are saturated – a perfect way to begin the growing season. Presently, there is the familiar, satisfying sound of woody grapevine canes being cut by our skilled vineyard crew over at Renegade Vineyard. Amazingly, it will take almost three years for us to train these vines, produce and harvest the fruit, and create the wine for you to enjoy.
It is peaceful in the cellar as well, with the remainder of the 2019 vintage wines patiently resting in barrel, awaiting bottling in March. The 2020 vintage is in the rearview mirror and we are very excited to watch these wines take shape and form beautifully over time. It is incredible to think that a new harvest is on the horizon and with how hectic this past year has been, we are utterly optimistic about what lies ahead.
We are also thrilled to share that one of our veteran vineyard employees, Sonya, was recently accepted to AHIVOY. The esteemed non-profit creates opportunities for and works to empower the Latinx and Hispanic vineyard laborers in the region. It is an involved program and looks to overcome socioeconomic disparities, provide education and professional development, and pave the way for these hard-working industry folks. We could not be more proud and grateful to have Sonya on our team.
It goes without saying that 2020 issued a new brand of difficulty. Between the pandemic and historic wildfires, nothing came easy. Yet, there is a hardiness and boundlessness to the individuals that work in this industry day in and day out – one that is infectious and powers us through no matter what the vintage brings. We look forward to 2021 and wish you a peaceful and restorative year ahead.
