Fall 2017 News from the vineyard

October 17, 2017

As this Newsletter was being prepared numerous fires sprung up in Napa, Sonoma and Mendecino counties threatening much of the Northern California Wine Country. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected or threatened by these fires and our gratitude to those responding to these emergencies.

Michaud Vineyard will donate part of our sales for the remainder of October to charities benefitting those affected by these fires.

Fall shipment:

We wanted to let you know that your fall shipment will be going out next week! An adult over 21 must sign for it. Some find it easier to have their wine club shipments sent to their work. If this would work better for you, please let Belinda know right away, belinda@michaudvineyard.com.

Tasting Room open by appointment-COME VISIT! and help needed:

We are currently looking to hire staff for the new tasting room at the vineyard. We plan to be open Fridays – Sundays. Please contact Belinda

for more details.

Harvest update:

Harvest was earlier this year due to a mild winter and earlier spring. We received 16” of rain and the warmest growing season on record. The timing of the heat was perfect, however and the vines produced a delicious crop. The quality of the fruit and flavor are excellent and even better than 2016 (which was great too)!

We are using a new organic fertilizer spray on the vine leaves. And although the vineyard is not certified organic, it is sustainable by only using as much resources as needed. We hand hoe vs. using herbicides.

The vineyard has a cover crop that is mowed to prevent erosion which allows soil to accumulate organic material needed to thrive. This also

provides a habitat for beneficial insects that eat things like the grape leaf hopper.

Approximately 50,585 lbs. of Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Grenache, Tempranillo, Barbara, Marsanne, Roussanne, Sangiovese and Syrah grapes were picked. That’s 35 tons! 10 tons were sold to  Birichino Winery, Mountain View Winery, and Caraccioli Winery. The rest will make its way into our estate grown Michaud Vineyard wine.

Upcoming events:

We will be planning a get together at the vineyard soon. Stay tuned for more details!

Cheers,

Michael Michaud

Owner and Wine Maker