Vintage 2024 Begins

This is it. Harvest is in full swing. Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and some Chardonnay are ready. Ready is subjective. When to pick is never an easy decision, but it is the most important winemaking decision.

The aromas, flavors, and texture of wine is determined by place (terroir), vintage (weather) and grape variety. The balance and harmony of all these components is largely determined by the timing of picking.

This growing season has presented us with unusual ripening conditions: drought, one big rain, and the earliest start to harvest ever. There are many factors that contribute to picking decisions: flavor, skin astringency, overall health of the clusters, and weather forecast to name a few. However, sugar content (brix) and acidity are two measurable components that have significant influence on our picking decisions.

The amount of sugar will determine the wine’s alcohol content. This year (and last year) we are seeing very high brix which is of concern, especially for white wines. Sugar increases each day as the grapes ripen. We are measuring very high sugars that will soon result in wines with over 14% alcohol. This can make the wine heavy rather than refreshing.

The acidity in grapes declines with ripening. Last week the acidity was too high. If we picked last week, most of the wines would be too tart and shrill. This week the acidity is calming and coming into balance. However the sugars are accumulating quickly and are about to reach the potential 14%+ alcohol range.

Game on. 

Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Hardscrabble Journal: August 25, 2024