Episode 23: Chardonnay Vineyard Walk With The Winemaker

In this week's Winemaker Wednesday video, join Winemaker Chris as he takes you on an immersive walk through the Chardonnay vineyard, offering an insider’s perspective on what it takes to grow premium wine grapes. As he strolls through the rows of vines, Chris delves into the delicate balance between sun and shade—a crucial factor that can make or break a harvest. He explains how sunlight exposure impacts the flavor development of the grapes and why managing this balance is a fine art.

Chris also discusses the relationship between the leaf canopy and the crop balance, shedding light on how vineyard management techniques are used to optimize the vine's energy for producing high-quality fruit. He explains how too much or too little foliage can affect the ripening process, leading to either underdeveloped or overly ripe grapes. By the end of the video, you'll gain a better understanding of why vineyard management is such an essential part of the winemaking process.

As harvest season approaches, Chris shares his insights on how he determines the perfect time to pick the grapes. He discusses what winemakers are looking for as they walk the vineyards, including the importance of tasting grape berries for ripeness. Chris explains how the taste, texture, and even the crunch of the seeds can provide vital clues about the fruit’s readiness. Additionally, he talks about the visual cues, like the color of the grape skins and the appearance of the seeds, as well as the sweetness and acidity levels of the juice that signal the ideal harvest moment.

Ultimately, Chris emphasizes that deciding when to harvest is a delicate balance of art and science, combined with years of experience. It's not just about following formulas or relying solely on data; it's also about trusting your instincts, honed over many seasons, to make the right call. This video is a must-watch for anyone curious about the nuances of grape growing and how those decisions in the vineyard ultimately influence the wine in your glass. Tune in to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of wine, starting from the very roots in the vineyard.