05/19/2026
Back in 2023, we identified a gently sloping parcel of our land as having potential for expanding our vineyard acreage. The challenge: years of compaction from conventional hay farming had created poorly drained pockets throughout the block, causing rainwater runoff from the hill above to pool across the field even in drier weather.
Committed to working the land intentionally and sustainably, we cycled it through three seasons of tillage radish, more commonly known as daikon. These fast-growing tubers push down through compacted soil layers, naturally breaking up the ground. In late fall, the unharvested radishes decompose, leaving behind rich organic matter and aerated channels that improve drainage and overall soil health. By this past winter, even through feet of snow and multiple rainstorms, the field was draining beautifully.
Last week, we finally planted this block with Chardonnay, selected specifically for our traditional method sparkling program. Higher-density planting aids in ongoing moisture management, while cool air flowing down the hillside slows ripening and preserves the bright acidity we look for in our base wines. We’ll now guide these vines through the next few growing seasons, with an eye toward an initial harvest in three years.
Cheers 🥂
