Chardonnay Bud Break April 12, 2023

Unsurprisingly this warm weather has accelerated bud break. The 2023 vintage has precociously begun. For decades we have referred to April 20 as our average date of bud break for Chardonnay here at Hardscrabble. But a quick review of recent past bud break dates has revealed that it has been many years since that date has held true. Perhaps it is time to revisit and revise average.

A dry soil has contributed to the swift bud break. Dry soils warm more quickly than wet soils. At this stage the lack of soil moisture is not worrying, but once the growth cycle accelerates the vines will need more access to water.

Coincidentally today is also our last day of pruning. Cabernet Sauvignon breaks bud about 10 days after Chardonnay which is why we choose to prune it last. If we get behind and spring decides to arrive early there is a bit of scheduling wiggle room.

The weather will now dictate our work lives until the last grape is picked in October. Not being in control can be stressful or calming. Or both. Right now it is calming and optimism prevails.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal/Field Notes: April 12, 2023