Linden Update | May 27, 2020
The Vineyard, May 26, 2020
Back to Work
It’s starting to look like a vineyard. Finally warm temperatures are pushing shoot growth and we see green. Our work pace is intense as all the vines need attention at once.
Shoot thinning is taking place. Each vine produces about twice as many shoots as is needed. We sculpt the vine by strategically removing shoots that would crowd the canopy. Uniformity is the goal. Each shoot retained should be about a six-inch distance from its neighbor.
Unfortunately the freeze of May 9 randomly and indiscriminately removed a lot of shoots for us. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. On any given vine most shoots are unaffected while others are toast.
This has made our decisions more difficult and the vines are not as uniform as we would like. But at least there is a crop. Perhaps not as much as we would like, but enough. And right now we are feeling that enough is plenty.
Friends of Linden can now escape to the vineyard.
Escape!
Linden’s first welcome back weekend was a success. Everyone was distantly spread out throughout the entire winery. Intimate picnics were scattered around the decks, crush pads, and docks. I have to boast that we do social distancing well.
We hope you will take advantage of our invitation for Friends of Linden to escape to the vineyard. For details, guidelines, and reservations, please visit Tock.
Guidelines
In order to respect the official state guidelines and provide for the safety of our staff and guests, the following guidelines must be adhered to at this time:
Only current Friends of Linden can participate (you can join or rejoin upon arrival. Email us if you have questions about your current status).
Reservations are required and must be made through the Tock Reservation Platform.
Maximum group size is two people. All our seating is set for two people only. Parties may not “join up.” (Multiple reservations must not be made with this intent.)
No children or pets at this initial phase.
Linden wines can be purchased, but no tastings will be available.
During this phase-in period, you may bring your own picnic. No food from Linden is available.
Linden will provide wine, water, and appropriate glassware, but cannot offer plates or utensils.
Tailgate picnics and parking near a picnic spot are permissible for those with reservations.
Pack in, pack out. Linden cannot dispose of trash.
In case of rain, we do have some limited sheltered outside seating.
We are aware that these guidelines are limiting. Please know that we feel that at this time they are in everyone’s best interest. Restrictions will relax with time. We very much look forward to seeing you again.
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
What do I get for my $15 reservation fee?
A beautiful, controlled, and safe environment in which to enjoy solitude, fresh air, and our wines.
What happens in the event of rain?
We do have sheltered outside seating.
Can I bring other alcoholic beverages?
No. Only Linden wines will be available for purchase.
Are restrooms available?
Yes, Linden’s two bathrooms are rigorously sanitized hourly.
Can I just buy some bottles to take home?
During their visit, Friends of Linden who have reserved in advance may purchase wines to take with them.
After sheltering in place for two months, this is our first venture outside. Is it safe?
Linden takes social distancing very seriously. This is why at this time we limit group size to two people. In addition to our outside decks we have converted our outdoor, but sheltered, processing areas to limited seating. There are five different venues to choose from. Additionally there are benches and plenty of open areas available on the grounds.
2017 Claret, 2017 Boisseau Red, 2017 Avenius Red, 2017 Hardscrabble Red, 2017 Avenius Chardonnay, 2017 Hardscrabble Chardonnay
Until May 31, 2020
2017 Vintage | Last Call
Many of you have now had the opportunity to taste some of the 2017 vintage wines through our “Raid the Cellar” samplers. 2017 was a very good year. It was as good as the 2009 vintage, except that these wines reflect eight additional years of winegrowing experience.
We are now making them available for purchase through the month of May. Starting in June, the remaining bottles will continue aging in the cellar and wait for a proper release. I must say that the reds are showing surprisingly well now, but the Avenius and Hardscrabble Chardonnays are still somewhat closed down. In any case, 2017 was also a generous vintage, so we have a good supply of all these wines. If now is not the right time for you, fear not, all you need is patience.
2017 Pre-Release
2017 Claret | $28
2017 Boisseau Red | $45
2017 Avenius Red | $65
2017 Hardscrabble Red | $65
2017 Avenius Chardonnay | $38
2017 Hardscrabble Chardonnay | $42
Available until May 31, 2020 only.
We do anticipate a modest price increase upon official release.
Other wines can be included to qualify for a 12-bottle discount of 10%.
Linden Direct
Linden now ships wine via UPS to the District of Columbia in addition to Virginia. We are offering free shipping and handling until May 21.
We shamelessly remain stubborn Luddites, so you’ll have to call in your order the old-fashioned way: 540-364-1997. Shari is working in her vineyard in the morning but in the office by the phone on weekday afternoons from 12:30 to 5:00. Otherwise please leave a message.
For those with prepaid wine orders, Linden will set aside a separate area for curbside pickups on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 to 5. It would be appreciated if you could email ahead of time so your order is easily accessible.
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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Update: May 27, 2020