Early Bud Swell

We're JUST now starting to see buds swell a bit, and some of the very outer buds actually bursting. So far, it's only ones that are destined to be chopped off - but it's something to show us the vines are still alive.

Second Racking of 2008s

The vines are still dormant - by this time last year we had some pretty significant bud swell, but as of today nothing aside from the vetch taking hold.

So, instead of primp the vines we decided to do a second racking of the 2008s. Bruce lugged a carboy up and saw a yellow ring around the top. Wine smelled fine, but we went into panic mode and found this helpful Q&A from the Wine Wizard of WineMaker Magazine.

Whew! I have to admit winemaking is a LOT of cleaning and sanitizing, sounds like there's no room for slacking on that front.

Pruning for 2009

We pruned on the late side this year - here's a shot midway through.  

What have we enjoyed lately?

Not only do we make wine, but we are known to drink some on occasion. The bottles we like, we keep in our kitchen windowsill so we can recall which ones are worth getting more of. Figure we'd do the world a public service by sharing our favorites. While we usually peruse Safeway and TJs, this assortment is largely from local retailers: Locals in Saratoga and Beltramo's in, hmm, that weird strip along El Camino someplace between Menlo Park, Atheron, and Redwood City.

After my amazement at the quality of Patagonian wines last year, I have to say I'm a big fan of A Lisa of Patagonia.