So, here we are in the first week of October and we’ve still got some Cabernet Sauvignon out there (even after the 1.5″ of rain we received on Fri/Sat.). Things are going well with tanks full and pumpovers/punchdowns in full effect. Some days are a bit longer than others and it got us talking about how “harvest” really is the best excuse ever…OK, so things have gotten a bit punchy in the cellar, but it is harvest after all. (#1)
Miss a party? “I was busy. Grapes, punchdowns, yeah just couldn’t make it…harvest and all.” (#2).
Late for dinner? “The crusher/press just wasn’t working well. It seems like it took longer today. I guess just one of those harvest days honey.” (#3).
Too many beers? “I was just drinking ‘em for hydration purposes and they kinda crept up on me. Not sure how that happened…harvest! Yeah, that’s it.” (#4).
Just when you start to think about how you’ve got an excuse and answer for everything, you realize that they’re all true (maybe not the beer excuse, but the other three for sure). We pour a ton of ourselves into the vineyards and winery during every autumn and all these things come up. We do miss parties. We are late for dinner. The days are mysteriously longer on certain days (usually the busy days). Why so much sacrifice you ask? It’s because we all really enjoy what we do and we strive to make the finest wine this West Dry Creek ranch can make.
Here’s to the Harvest Excuse! What’s your favorite? Let me know.
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I am voting for #4 all the way. Next time I have too many beers, I will just yell “HARVEST!” at the top of my lungs. Thanks Mike.