Beginning this blog as we are in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, proves to be interesting. The word salud has several meanings, but at this wrinkle in time, I feel couldn’t be more pertinent. As home isolation and worldwide financial shocks have most of the world wondering about tomorrow, we all must continue to be present today. Unfortunately, many people have been sick, while others wait to see what their interaction with the virus will be directly, and if the disease will impact more than their fiscal and employment status.
Fortunately, the new restrictions placed on contact and travel, have not negatively impacted the operations of local farms. While wineries are trying to create ways to operate under the current constraints, vineyards must continue their day to day farm activities in anticipation of the coming crop. Appreciating that most wine produced takes 14 months to 24 months to get to market, the wine made from the grapes we are growing on the Aeolus Vineyard will likely not be consumed until late 2021 to early 2022. Working on the farm was one of the many appeals of purchasing Mr. Greenwood’s established vineyard. We were able to share in the responsibility of pruning the vines a few weeks ago with our talented and vigilant crew from Clark Vineyard Management. The level of physical endurance and aptitude required is only beginning to be appreciated. We also spent a significant amount of time clearing up some of the underbrush that had grown up during the transition of acquiring the land.
The barn and office space is really taking shape. This is thanks to our handy contractor, Walt of Woodman Construction. We appreciate the team at Holloran Vineyards giving us license to replicate their tasting room decor. We feel certain that the office will be utilized frequently, once travel is allowed.
2019 grape harvest was sold to the fine wine producers listed below. Appreciating, that all of our grape buyers are truly just small businesses, this current coronavirus pandemic presents a great time to support them and get some great wines in return. Many have great specials because with no visitors coming to their wineries for tastings, sales are down and they will figure out a way to get their wine to you. If not these wineries, consider any of the many others in the Eola-Amity AVA. So, SAULD! my friends — to your health and prosperity. May we recognize the true value of friends, family and health in these challenging times. We are fortunate that this years crop is already accounted for, now we get the challenge of being a part of the process for the entire cycle. We look forward to you visiting the vineyard once restrictions are lifted.
- Stangeland Winery for several years has used Pommard clone Pinot Noir from our vineyards, as well as made aware winning Tempranillo
- Landmass Wines look for new sparkling wine and Tempranillo Rose`
- Willful Wines upcoming Pinot Noir
- Terapin Cellars is owned by our vineyard manager, Rob Clark. He creates a wonderful Tempranillo
- Illahe Vineyard and Winery upcoming Rose` from our vineyard
- Holloran Vineyards exciting creation with our Tempranillo
We are keeping everyone in our prayers. Stay healthy! Rod and Danette