The past couple of weeks have been activity-filled and slowing down or catching up on sleep are all unlikely.  Aside from Winemaking, one of my 'other' professions/passions is leatherwork and with two shows back-to-back, it is busy!  These shows, in addition to the Family Winemakers event in San Francisco and finalizing bottling for a couple of clients, will lead me into Harvest 2009.

This week (and next) I will be spending a lot of time looking closely at vineyards in prep for harvest.  So far, Anderson Valley vineyards are looking good with an “average” crop set and no fires in the area the year.  The only remaining worry from these vineyards is residual “smoke taint” in the soil from last year's fires.

The Sonoma County vineyards are generally looking good, although, this year may see us picking Pinot Noir well before the Sauvignon Blanc off comparable sites - a less common occurrence but this is what makes mother nature and science part friend, part foe.

Harvest 2009 is almost upon us - stay tuned for harvest updates.