Out in the vineyard, we try to use the most natural and sustainable techniques possible. Soil health, both nutrient richness and soil structure, is a crucial component to strengthening the vineyard. The primary way we achieve this is by planting a cover crop. A cover crop is a mix of legumes and beans that fix nitrogen into the soil and increase biomass. Cover crop planting and cultivation requires many steps. One of the most challenging parts is working with the weather Mother Nature provides. No two years are the same. 

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We wanted to share a mid-Harvest update from our Winemaker Parke Hafner and Vineyard Manager David Huebel. We also created a fun video with sneak peeks from behind the scenes of the Chardonnay Harvest. Parke shares his thoughts on the benefits of an estate vineyard and how the Chardonnay is made. We hope you enjoy it!

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Harvest is always an exciting time for everyone here at Hafner Vineyard and in our community. It's a moment that we've all been waiting for, the culmination of year's hard work. We start harvesting in the early morning when the grapes are cool. I love photographing these moments - bright lights illuminating the action surrounded by darkness. I came to work early one morning to capture some snapshots. Here I share a few of my favorites. 

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One of the dependable aspects of farming is its consistent annual cycles. Every year in late November or early December after the first frost, we begin pruning the grapevines. The vineyard crew heads out in the early morning hours to take on the daunting task of pruning 96 acres. This will take all seven guys roughly four months, perhaps longer if the weather is uncooperative. When pruning a vine, they have numerous decisions to make and a number of considerations to keep in mind. Pruning helps to determine the crop load for the coming Harvest. 

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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. 

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