After the Fires
- November 2, 2017
As many know, we were evacuated on Friday, October 13th, due to the looming Pocket Fire. While we were preparing to leave, my husband, Martín, suggested I set our game camera at the entry of the winery. That way, when we returned, we could see if any firefighters came or any wildlife fled the hills for safety in the vineyard. Upon our return a few days later, I promptly forgot about the camera. Instead, I left it rolling for the next week. The camera continued to roll and captured life at Hafner Vineyard. I was struck by the routine that resumed. Read more to see some of the photos.
Harvest is always an exciting time of year, but it can bring anxiety and nervousness. It reminds us that we are at Mother Nature’s will, and this year is no exception. Just before Labor Day, the temperatures soared to over 105°F for four days straight. That ripened the grapes quickly, triggering us to pick our Chardonnay. That meant no holiday weekend for the vineyard and cellar crews…Mother Nature had other plans. Recently, the temperatures dipped and we had some rain, which has stalled ripening. This meant the vineyard and cellar crews could catch their breath. Winemaker Parke Hafner and Vineyard Manager David Huebel each answered a few questions about Harvest 2017 so far and still to come. 
