Hardscrabble Journal

First Day of Crush

Yesterday was Linden’s first crush day. Logistically all went well. Some issues are always anticipated as there are a lot of moving parts that haven’t moved in 10 months. Happily, no surprises on this first day of crush.

However, we were emotionally stressed. It had rained most of the night and the morning was foggy and dreary. While we were relieved to have picked the Boisseau Chardonnay and Viognier, 95% of our crop is still on the vines. Rain and clouds are not what we need right now. Fortunately, the day ended with sunshine and spirits were lifted. Mood swings this time of the year are inextricably connected to the weather.

The first juice squeezed from the press gives us a deeper insight into the expectations of the personality of the vintage. Both Chardonnay and Viognier juice expressed ripeness and balance, but were lacking in concentration. This was a confirmation rather than a surprise. Our winemaking will be restrained in order to emphasis complex aromas, along with textural finesse and harmony.

A decade ago I could have been disappointed. Now I am excited about the potential we have here. This is a style that very few places on earth can do. I am reminded of the European wines I cut my teeth on in the 1970s. Now, with greater experience, we have learned to make wines according to the intrinsic quality of the season.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: September 11, 2020