2007 reds are aging in barrel...
We were able to take a short break after crush but we've still been keeping a close eye (and nose) on our barrels.  Recently we "racked" the red wines.  When the red wines finish fermentation they look like a purple milkshake with lots of solids suspended in them including grape particles and yeast bodies.  The solids settle to the bottom of the barrel with time and the wine clarifies.  So we carefully pumped the wine out of the barrels, leaving behind a thick layer of sediment.  Then we washed the sediment (lees) out the barrels and put the wine back in. The job is basically wet and tiring (especially outside in this cold weather) but the redeeming part is tasting through all of your wine while you do it.  So Joe & I just finished tasting through our entire portfolio of red wines from this year and we are happy with how they are coming along.  The different characters of the vineyards are starting to show so I'm  putting together my vineyard plan for 2008.   

Many of you have been asking when will the wines be ready…and we've finally got an answer for you.  March 8th will be the release date. We'll get back to you soon about tastings and events but you can reserve your wine now on our website.  Soon enough we'll have the wine in bottle and then in your hand.  Looking forward to it!!

-Melanie