Research.

In order to produce fine vineyards, one must frequently conduct research in order to learn a variety of local growing techniques.

In May, we visited beautiful Paso Robles and stopped at three vineyards/wineries: Peachy Canyon, Jack Creek, and Chateau Margene. We were lucky enough to be given a personal vineyard tour by the owner of Jack Creek, who showed us the correct way to prune vines. We discussed our own vineyard with him, and he gave us tips and pointers for producing successful growth during this fragile time period. A big thank you to Doug at Jack Creek!







Our "research" purchase.


This weekend we went to Disney's California Adventure, where they have working vineyards and a winery-style restaurant. Although the newly remodeled restaurant won't be open until next week, we were able to see the vineyards. We hope to visit the restaurant next time we are there!

Growing Season

Thankfully, most of the rigorous, back-breaking work has finished at Willow Vines. We are now playing a waiting game, consisting mostly of drinking wine while watching the quick, steady growth of the vines. It is amazing to see how quickly they are growing - some have almost reached the first wire! Incredibly, the Montapulciano plants have even begun to produce tiny grapes.

Not everything has been so easy, however. We started to find small black caterpillars on a few of the plants, eating their way through the leaves. Luckily, the problem does not seem to be a big one, and we should not have to resort to drastic measures (other than picking the rascals off their victims and effectively squishing them into oblivion).

Below you will see the current vine growth.