Spring has sprung in the vineyards of the north-coast and specifically at the Sonoma-Loeb Vineyards in the Alexander Valley and Russian River Appellation. Bud break has officially arrived as temperatures have risen and triggered the vine activity.
Budbreak is the beginning of the growing season and a celebration of what is to come. It’s fascinating to watch as the shoots emerge from the dormant vines and start subtly painting the vineyards green. The bud is where it all begins. The clusters and leaves are wound up in the bud and will mature over the next six months for harvest in the Fall.
At the Sonoma-Loeb vineyards winemaker Phillip Titus keeps up with the vineyard development, though he is still working with the 2010 wines set to release in a few months. Following the accolades from the 2009 vintage he has a lot to follow. The 93 and 94 point scores from Robert Parker and the 92 point score from the Wine Spectator have created great interest for the 2010 wines.
For now we are enjoying the 2009 wines and hope you are as well.