Rob’s 100 Degree Vineyard Report
This heat spell we’re having this week might set record high temperatures, just as this spring set record low temperatures, and everything is great in the vineyard. One the clouds parted two weeks ago, the vines who heretofore been thin and lacking in vigor exploded in growth. A few days ago, the flowers started unfurling and the period known as fruit-set began during perfect climactic conditions for a vintage year.
We’re working around the heat, trying to keep up with the rapid growth of the vines before the heat of the afternoon weighs too heavily. Starting at 5:00 and ending at 2:00, we avoid the worst part of the day and work as quickly as we can in the cool morning air.
This sudden spike in temperatures couldn’t have been more perfect after a dismal, dreary sort of spring. Crisis seemed to lurk, but whoever’s in charge must have listened to the prayers of every vineyard worker in Oregon. The vineyard looks great and everything so far makes 2010 look like a great vintage.
Tags: Dobbes Family Estate Winery, Larkins Estate Vineyard, Oregon vineyard, Wine by Joe
Comment by: Mike on August 4th, 2010 at 11:40 pm
Hi, Joe,
Forgive my ignorance, but does this mean that you think 2010 will be a good vintage for wines? My own knowledge of wine is kind of lacking, but I read that if there’s not enough sun and heat in the days or weeks before harvest that the grapes don’t ripen well enough, and when harvested at that point you get kind of a grassy, asparagus kind of smell and flavor. I’m not sure if that’s true or not but it’s what I’ve gathered from a casual interest in what you do. When do you normally harvest?
Incidentally, I enjoy your Pinot Noir. Though I’m more into Cabernet Savignon myself, I do like your Pinot.
Thanks