Vintage Blog Week 4: Hot temperatures, late nights & a lot of fruit!
Apologies for not giving an update sooner, but this vintage has been one to test the limits of our abilities. Almost 80% of our fruit has come in over the past two weeks. Including all the whites and reds at the same time. This is a result of a very warm summer.
The heat wave over the last two weeks in this region. The hot temperatures and amount of fruit has pushed our cooling system to the limit. The cooling system helps regulate the ferment. Resulting in late nights closely monitoring tank temperatures. Thankfully the coffee machine has been working very reliably!
To add to this pressure there have been several players sidelined or carrying injuries. Our basket pressing guru, Andy, has powered through a persistent ligament injury in his shoulder.
One of our leading hands, Simon, has spent the past week in hospital with a blood infection. I have been on crutches until two weeks ago after having a knee repair done in early January. To add to this, there have been toothaches, skin irritations, and other weird ailments to challenge us. But power on we shall.
Despite all this we are very happy with the quality of the fruit. There are beautiful delicate flavours in the Riesling and Chardonnay. With lots of richness and spice coming through in the reds.
We know all this hard work and sleep deprivation will pay off in several months! After we produce some elegant and classic Great Western wines for you all.
Until next week,
Justin
