Journal | September 2, 2026

Unveiling the Personality of Vintage 2026

Linden started harvest on Monday August 31. Sauvignon Blanc was first up to bat. What is typically a two-day pick was accomplished in just one day: the result of the April 21 frost. The Avenius Vineyard produced about 50% of normal. Hardscrabble was about 25% of normal.

But what really matters is that we get our first glimpse into the style and personality of the vintage. The first words that come to mind are “mineral, tension, refreshing and cleansing”. Judging from tasting the grapes and the juice, along with the sugar and acid analysis, we can expect lower alcohol and some classic “Sauvy” bracing acidity. I hope the Chesapeake has a good oyster crop in a couple years.

Chardonnay will follow on Labor Day Monday. The grapes could use a few more days of sun along with some cooler nights and fresher dew points. So far it looks as though the Chardonnays could follow suit as to style.

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Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Hardscrabble Journal: September 2, 2026