The days are getting shorter and there is a coolness to the morning breeze. What a welcome change after the record heat of summer. While the heat and drought may have been less that pleasant for some of us it has resulted in some apparent benefits to the wine grape crop. Harvest has been 1 to 2 weeks early for most vineyards including our estate vineyards here in the LC Valley.

The red varietals are showing increased color, concentration and exceptional flavors while the whites have intense fruit aromas. The winery is awash with the fragrances of tropical and stone fruit from the Viognier currently fermenting. We have just loaded “Francine” (our Seguin Moreau French Oak Microvinificator) with 2015 Bacchus Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Our block was cropped at 2.6 tons per acre as was the 2014 vintage.

The low crop load and the exceptionally hot growing season have once again produced some fabulous fruit. Having just racked the 2014 and had the pleasure to sample this wine I am thrilled to have more in the pipeline. We have never sold futures but the 2014 Bacchus may be our first as it is an amazing Cabernet Sauvignon.

Our current release Semillon-Sauvignon blend is selling fast. It is an incredible ( or should I say credible?) food wine. I have served it with nearly every seafood available and found it to pair well with all. Watch for a late fall release of our 2013 GSM and our estate Bordeaux Field Blend. Both are limited production, silky, elegant and delicious.

Over the course of the year we have added some states to direct shipping so check out the list from the winery as well as Vino Shipper. Freight charges are less than you may suspect and we often have in house shipping specials so call or email for some great wine delivered to your front door.

Here’s to a great vintage, fantastic friends and the simple pleasures of both!

Cheers!