In the Vineyard
The last few days have seen the temperatures nearly reach record-breaking highs. While heat is necessary for the grapes to ripen, extreme heat (above 100 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time) can cause the vines to suffer heat stress. The vine stopsphotosynthesizing and the plant basically shuts down while temperatures remain high.
At this point in the vine life cycle, right before veraison (the onset of ripening), we are trying to encourage canopy growth to ensure we have enough green leaves to fully ripen each and every cluster of grapes. So during this current heat spell, we have been closely watching our soil moisture monitor reports and adjusting our watering patterns based on the data we are seeing. We have been running the drip line irrigation for short intervals, maintaining just enough water to keep the plants producing leaves while we endure 100+ degree days.
At least we can stay cool in the air conditioning with a cool glass of Reluctant Rosé in hand!
Did You Know?
As the weather gets warmer, it is important to keep your wine stash in mind.
Wine can “cook” in the heat. Wine will change as it is exposed to heat and it doesn’t destroy wine evenly. Tannins can become more pronounced and taste tangy and astringent. Instead of a smooth mouthfeel; wine can feel rough on the palate. Often the wine loses its fruit flavors and becomes secondary to unpleasant acidity.
Wine corks can push due to too much exposure to heat, such as being in a warm car. Damage can begin at a temperature of 75 degrees. Without air conditioning, it's unfortunately too easy to let wine cook as temperatures hit 80 degrees and beyond. Prolonged exposure such as a week long heat wave or full day in a car can decimate wine. Damage often happens in transit, so if you are traveling, keep the wine in the passenger compartment of the car or in a cooler with ice.
When out wine tasting in the warm weather, do not hesitate to bring wine purchases into the tasting rooms. Many wineries will even hold your wine until the end of the day so it won’t accidentally be ruined in a hot car.
Wine of the Month - 2013 Shameless
Regularly $28, now $22.40! Wine Club $19.60! While Supplies Last
Upcoming Events
Pizza on the Patio July 2, 12-2pm and August 6, 12-2pm
Lobster Fest September 9, 6-8pm
10-15-20 Year Mitchella Anniversary Dinner October 7, 6-8pm
Fall Wine Club Pick Up Party, October 15 10am-12pm
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