Journal | May 30, 2026

Rhythm

One beauty of wine is vintage variation. Every year’s bottling is different because of the weather. For the winegrower each growing season also has a rhythm. Exclusive of harvest, this is our busiest time in the vines. It’s a marathon for the next month. Shoot positioning, suckering, leaf pulling and hedging all require a paced sequence. Timing is critically important. If we get behind, it can take much longer to accomplish the same task. Each variety and each block has different requirements. There is a comforting rhythm to the sequence. Chardonnay needs extra attention early as its shoots grow fast and are susceptible to breakage in a thunderstorm. Unruly Petit Verdot’s tendrils will grab anything within reach and won’t let go.  Cabernet’s lateral shoots grow fast and hold on tight. If the timing is right, they snap off with fingers. but if we miss the window it takes twice as long using shears.

This year the rhythm is off. The hot/cold, dry/wet spring has confused the vines. Our hope is that with this beautiful weather they will gather themselves. Same is true with us. After a week of rain and “inside” work, we’re having trouble prioritizing and organizing. It’s not so black and white right now, but lot of grey. We’re not behind, nor are we in “the zone”. I have a feeling that will soon change.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Hardscrabble Journal: May 30, 2026