This week I have been manning the office alone as Simon, Jane and Jason have been in Shanghai for a trade show. Jason is now his way home, while Jane and Simon are en route to Ireland, where they are to be joined by the girls to launch Durvillea Wines next week.
However, being the only one in the office it has not been dull, I have been very busy!
Last week I went over to visit our Nelson customers to see how the were going, and if they needed anything before the Christmas rush. I also did a tasting at Richmond Fresh Choice, who have been very supportive of Durvillea, since we released it. The tasting was a success and a lot of people seemed to very interested in our Pinot Grigio (Pinot Grigio is an Italian style of wine, it is still made with the Pinot Gris varietal, but it is made in a dryer and leaner style- a style that Simon is interested in)
Sounday 2010 is going to be held on the 30 January 2010 at Hagley Park 10am- 7pm, the line up has not been released yet, but I will keep you all up to date and provide a link to buy tickets when they are available.
This week it has warmed up in Marlborough, which our viticulturist Jeremy is ver
y happy about as it has started to encourage some growth with the grapes. So far it has been rather cool, so growth has not been very rapid, however already with a few warm days and some rain he is starting to see some growth.
Currently we are in the pre flowering growth of the cycle. The photo here shows the bunches pre flowering and they are called inflorescenses, from here they will flower in a couple of weeks and then set, turning into bunches of grapes. At this time of year it is important to shoot position this is to maximise light interception (increase photosynthecity of the plant) and to and lay the foundation for the canopy of the vine for the rest of season.
As a lot goes on in the next few months in the vineyard I thought I would give you a wee update every couple of weeks so you can see exactly what stage of the growth process we are at.
It is a beautiful evening here in Marlborough today, so I think it must be time to head out for a drink!
- Jane, Simon and Meg, I hope you have a good trip to Ireland, I am dropping Libby and Bella at the airport Sunday to join you! Sophie
Hi Soph!
Thinking of you from Dublin! Thanks for keeping it going while we are all away!