So far, 2012 has offered a very cordial growing season. Any shortcomings experienced in our vineyard have been attributed to learning experiences. One day in June, we felt forced to spray before an imminent storm. However, temperatures spiked in advance of the rain event, and burned leaves and even some fruit. Lesson learned.
We have learned meteorology as well. On June 29, we experienced an amazing straight-line wind storm, called a derecho. The leaves were thrashed by winds and flying brush. However, the fruit held strong. On the contrary, our orchard lost almost all the apples and pears. The vineyard was spared mostly, but a few scars remain.
Veraison will be any day now...
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| Sunrise in the vineyard. New mercies each day. |
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| Netting to protect the grapes from birds and deer. |
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| Petit manseng. |
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| Petit verdot. |
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| 2011 plantings. Growing very well. |
