Linden Update | March 13, 2024
Brisk pruning to stay ahead of warming weather.
Pruned vine waiting for bud break.
March Update
When scientific knowledge and technology are limited, our senses of observation, intuition, and sensitivity are heightened.
—Andre Ostertag, winegrower, Alsace
Spring peepers are tiny frogs that overwinter in a frozen state in muddy wetlands. In March when the soil temperatures warm, they wake and peep. Last week the first few slow, soulful chirps started. This week a chorus of peeps makes for a magical, mystical awakening. Spring has arrived. This year the peepers are early.
It is a bittersweet marker. March is a transitional period for both the vines and for the winegrower. Winter has moved on and along with it, our down time. Reviewing, researching, and long-term planning comes to an end. No more reading about the latest gizmos that promise to help us make better wine more efficiently. No more extra cup of coffee by the fire.
In spring we react. The weather is in charge and the vines don’t care about our plans. Right now the pace of pruning is necessarily brisk. The deadline is close and uncertain. A warm March will accelerate bud break. Colder days are welcome as they slow vine development and give us more time. Every day is spent tending the vines, pruning, and tying. It is quiet except for the peepers, the Red-shouldered hawks and the Canada geese. We notice more. The early spring cover crops bloom with tiny fragile micro-flowers, which we notice because we are intimate with our small environment. One feels closer to life now.
Spring Comparative Tastings
Starting in April Linden’s comparative tastings will focus on crisp whites and refreshing reds. We will also be open on Fridays.
Linden Direct
If you can’t make it out to the winery, these wines are always available for shipping via UPS on Linden Direct. (VA, MD, and DC only)
Subscribe to monthly Linden Updates for the latest vineyard and cellar information
Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Update: March 13, 2024