Week 1 of harvest is upon us. That’s not saying we’re getting fruit this week but that the season is upon us. For those of you who have followed a vintage with me before, you know I start week 1 with the first week in August and it continues for the next 14 weeks. This is an early year so far. 2004 was the warmest in recent years and we are knocking on that record already. The nights recently have been cool leading to foggy mornings and warm sunny afternoons. We have Sauvignon Blanc at 21 Brix and saw our sister winery, Franciscan, bring in their first fruit today. Needless to say we are very close to bringing in fruit ourselves. I’m daring to hope for a clear Halloween this year without having to worry about which vineyards will be hanging out through it.
In the vineyards, Veraison is almost complete in To Kalon with almost black bunches in every block. The Malbec was particularly interesting today with super dark color already at only 14 Brix. It looks like it will be a very interesting year if the weather holds.
At home, our pears are coming ripe and the tomatoes and zucchini have been prolific! Bring on the baked zucchini with fresh tomatoes, oregano, basil, and mozzarella cheese! I love this time of year because it is a time of great possibility from the vintage and fantastic fresh foods.

See you next week!