For anyone who has grown grapes, made wine or for any length of time simply lived adjacent to the wine industry, the heart and the base of winemaking is agriculture.  Our culture for generations has associated wine consumption with finery, celebration and at times, elitism.   But at the end of the day, the grapes […]

  Everyone seemingly anticipates spring earlier this year.  With the official commencement of spring only three weeks away, the anticipation of its arrival is palpable.  The birds seem to chirp louder and faster, humans have a noticeable spring in their step and local garden centers cannot wait to plant vegetable garden ideas in your head.  […]

  This growing season in Napa Valley has not been without its challenges.  Rain and cooler temperatures visited the valley early in the season and growers watched breathlessly hoping that “shatter” would not happen.   The summer then progressed far cooler than average.   Yields are less, yet flavors should be more concentrated without high sugar levels, […]

  In the early weeks of autumn in the Bay Area, temperatures fluctuate as for much of the region summer-like temperatures can appear for several days in a row to be followed by cooler weather.   With typical yet periodic summer weather in late September, it is best for Bay Area residents to keep refreshing white […]

  September in Napa Valley marks the start of harvest.   Not all grapes are harvested at the same time as different varietals ripen at various stages.  Similarly, depending on where you are in Napa Valley, its varying geography and microclimates determine ripening.   Even those with backyard gardens are harvesting vegetables such as heirloom tomatoes.   If […]