Welcome to the first blog post for Willow Vines! We are the Robinsons - newlyweds who have big plans to turn our large, grassy backyard into a working vineyard. Along with the help of our parents (who have been experimenting with wine-making this year), we hope to successfully plant, grow, and harvest high quality grapes within the next few years.
Plans are being finalized for the planting of our backyard vineyard sometime in late March 2010. We are currently analyzing the soil, taking down measurements, and obtaining quotes for root stock. According to the Web Soil Survey by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, our soil is likely either Metz Loamy Sand or Hueneme Fine Sandy Loam (which are very similar in composition). We are considering the possibility of sending out a soil sample for testing, so we may adjust pH level if necessary. Luckily, our land is slightly sloped, allowing for ample drainage and minimal dampness in the soil. We are crossing our fingers that the rootstock will have a happy and lengthy courtship with our sandy loam (or loamy sand, whichever it may be!).
We will likely plant primarily Zinfandel, as Zin grows well in dry, temperate climates. Zinfandel is also one of our favorite varietals!
We plan on posting pictures of our "blank slate" next weekend, for now however, we will document one picture of our yard as it stood when we first purchased our home. The yard had been left alone for some time, and the grass grew waist-high!
Until next time!
Willow Vines
