Autumn in Oregon, sunshine, cool air and spectacular autumn leaves. We’re very lucky to have no rain yet in one of the coolest and latest vintages ever in the Eola Hills where Tunkalilla Vineyard Riesling is squeezing the last bits of useful energy from the fading sun.
2010 in Tunkalilla Vineyard has been as cool as a normal Mosel growing season and the south facing slope has only managed to achieve 20% sugar to date at a naturally high acid of 9gpl. We will pick next Monday the 25th, 2 to 3 weeks later than normal.
Cristom Winery, our neighbour, has just started harvesting Pinot and with one week of clear weather ahead everyone is bracing, walking the tight rope between waiting for the production of the last molecules of flavour and having enough time to pack it all away in the winery before the inevitable rain and cold winds of the northern winter descend.
In 2 years time you will be able to taste the final judgement delivered by this next anxious week.
BJC.
