Hardscrabble Journal

Bittersweet

This could be the last week of pruning therapy. There is no better satisfaction than this slow, methodical vineyard work on a warm, early spring day. During pruning the mind can wander, but it is quickly brought back into focus with each vine.

We are finishing up this year’s pruning with young Cabernet vines. Young vines require the most skilled and experienced pruner. Pruning decisions made during these formative years will determine the form and architecture of each individual vine for the rest of its life.

Additionally, when the vines are in their fourth or fifth year, there is a large variation between individual vine size and ability to ripen a given quantity of clusters. It is only the pruner who can see how strong the vine grew the previous year. Once the vine is pruned, there is no way of evaluating a vine’s strength. When we prune, we adjust perceived vine capacity by retaining a precise number of buds that will ultimately become fruitful shoots.

This is referred to as balanced pruning. Each vine is an individual and can ripen only a certain number of grapes according to its ability.

We will miss these quiet, creative days as soon we will temporarily retreat from the vineyard. The barn beckons, full of tractors and equipment in need of repairs and maintenance.

Vintage 2020 is underway.

Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: March 29, 2020