The hills have turned their summer gold, the temperatures have cranked up a notch, the Tasting Room crowds have increased, the bocce court is in use – summer is back and we are ready!
Early indications from the vineyards provide optimism for this year’s harvest. The fruit set is large and healthy, and little mildew has been seen; but grape growers realize the season is a long one and it has just begun. We’ll keep our fingers crossed (as always).
Lots of activity at the winery. Cellar staff is busy bottling for custom crush clients, while wine fermented from the 2015 vintage has been stored in barrels and tanks. Negotiations are being finalized with clients for this year’s harvest. New barrels have been ordered.
In May Mike Martini and Jake poured wine at our California distributor’s San Francisco tasting, while I ventured to Southern California to cover shows in Los Angeles and San Diego. Meanwhile, activity is in full swing at the Tasting Room. We welcome Kaitlyn back with open arms from her maternity leave –just in time for a host of summertime parties, including our concert series. Over Memorial Day weekend we kicked off the season with the great dance band Stax City. In June Tom Rigney & Flambeau will give us a dose of Cajun music, while local favorite Bottle Shock will follow.
So now is the time to pack a picnic and head out to West County. Enjoy the redwoods, country roads, quaint towns, the spectacular coast – and, oh yes, the wine. Taft Street preferably!
Cheers!
Mike Tierney
President, Taft Street Winery