28 November 2009

Happy Thanksgiving

Well I had the best of intentions to post before Thanksgiving when we had a beautiful fall day and the neighbor dogs came for a romp. Yes, that would be 7 dogs; three Irish Setters, two Australian Shepherds, one Golden Retriever and one long haired Dachshund. It was a lovely muddy walk after the rain the last two days but fun none the less. I have to admit that I didn't take the time to take the walk but sent my camera along instead and I think all were having fun.

Of course I couldn't post on Thursday as I was having a wonderful time with friends and family.

So back to work on Friday for a short day, I just needed to stir the Chardonnay barrels. I do this about once a week and it is always kind of fun. The Chardonnay is done with primary fermentation, that is converting the sugar to alcohol and is now in the midst of secondary or malo-lactic fermentation which is converting malic acid to lactic acid, this is done by bacteria rather than yeast. I am stirring the barrels to keep the yeast in suspension which helps increase mouth feel and texture.

If you don't have any plans for today or tomorrow I recommend heading out to the winery for some of Mary's wonderful appetizers and some great wine, not that I'm biased. The 2008 Chardonnay is now available and while a little more time in the bottle would be recommended I think its very tasty.

17 November 2009

Lovely Riesling

Yesterday I was busy topping all day. The first time after barreling everything down is very slow. This year I have about 90 barrels of pinot, 40 barrels of marechal foch and 18 barrels of chardonnay. Everything looks beautiful and as I love to think about it: the wines are all potential. It's also just a great time to be in the barrel room because I am warming it to about 62F. Cozy compared to the winery which is about 50F.

What number?
Returning the sample
Riesling Tank

Today I had paperwork, getting labels approved by the TTB and checking on my lovely Riesling. I love riesling while it is fermenting, gorgeous smells and great flavors. It should be done in another 3 weeks. Can you believe the rain that came down last night? I had 0.7" at my house last night. I think the vineyard got about the same. Soggy!

15 November 2009

First Post

Harvest in the Willamette Valley is finally winding down and I thought that this year I would start a blog. I certainly enjoy reading others and hope that you might have fun reading about what I do during the course of the year. Please feel free to contact me with questions and comments. I am always glad to share my knowledge and love talking about wine.