Pruning: February is when we start our pruning. Currently, our entire vineyard (except for the Nebbiolo) is pruned using the spur-pruning technique. We now employ the cane-pruning technique with our Cabernet vines. Hopefully, this will continue to rejuvenate some of the older vines. By choosing small blocks within the vineyard, it will allow us to evaluate the changes and the benefits.

Weed Control: In mid-winter, before we start pruning, Dan begins work on the annual weed control. He puts on his backpack sprayer and starts the daily task of controlling all the weeds under the vine rows. He does allow the resident weeds to stay in the middle of the rows so we can use the greenery as ground cover. This helps in our water quality control for mid and late-winter rains. The greenery also helps to filter sediment run-off.

Gopher Control: This is also the time to start patrolling for the relentless gopher — a never-ending job. We do what we can to eliminate as many of these pests as possible when the ground is wet, and continue this tedious task all year-round.

Compost Spreading: As we move into late winter, there is another very important task that must be done in the vineyard — the spreading of compost. After spending six months breaking down, piles of compost are spread in the vineyard. This adds nutrient matter and also helps with water retention and bio-diversity.

Return to Wine and Vine News