Journal | August 15, 2022
Advanced Véraison
Behind Véraison
Winegrower vs. Winemaker
Véraison (color change) is the time that one can see ripeness. These two photos were taken the same day. They are of two different parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon separated only by a dozen yards. One is much farther along in ripeness. In October it will most likely be picked well in advance of the second block.
Why the difference? Row direction, vine age, and clone.
The more advanced vines run north/south allowing for better sunlight reception than the east/west rows. Younger vines (planted in 2014) ripen more quickly than older vines (planted in 2002). Finally, they are different clones of Cabernet Sauvignon (clone #412 is more precocious than clone #337).
But the point is that there is a difference, and we take note. At Linden we refer to ourselves as winegrowers rather than winemakers. The distinction can be demonstrated in this simple observation of véraison differences.
A winegrower spends most days in the vineyard. There is an intimacy with every block and every season. Years and decades of experience allow for an empirical knowledge that guides us. Winegrowers make palate-based and experience-based decisions, which in turn give a signature personality to the wines.
On the other hand, a winemaker receives grapes at the loading dock. The grapes are inspected, tasted, and analyzed in the lab. Science and numbers dictate the course of action. And the wine style.
Subscribe to Linden Updates for the latest vineyard and cellar information.
Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Journal: August 15, 2022