The end of harvest, with the grapes safely being fermented signals the transition into late autumn
and winter as the clocks change and we pull out coats and scarves. Solaris has led the way, already
losing leaves which have yellowed as the vines approach dormancy having had a good post-harvest period to rebuild carbohydrate reserves in roots and stems. This is important to fuel growth next spring and support good yields.
While an element of relaxation is allowed post-harvest many winter tasks now present themselves.
Structural changes to posts wires etc are best made before the grip of winter and we are adding a
few rows of vines to our existing plantings of Solaris and Cabernet Cortis as well as transplanting
some Rondo vines which did not thrive well in an area that proved to be too wet. The herbicide
strips have been created and posts knocked in manually to pilot holes drilled with an auger. Planting will take place in March and April after which the wires will be added. We’ll also be liming the new strips which were formerly old field pasture where the acidity has already been measured.
With winter in mind we have made the tasting room cosier with sheepskin covers on the benches
and additional seasonal lighting. A TV monitor is being added so that Tom can deliver his
comprehensive vineyard tour experience without leaving the building if the weather or darkness
dictates.
