Harvest 2013 Update

The wine harvest gods seem to be smiling now, as fair, but cool, weather has come to eastern Washington, following the rainy weather of early October. The added hang time has ripened grapes further, adding complexity to the fruit and, ultimately, to the wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, usually harvested late, is being or is about to be harvested. Other red grapes are in the vats, fermenting and pressing is under way or about to be. Last year, harvest was continuing into November. This year, in mid October, the end is in sight. More later!

 

Entwine 2013

Entwine is the annual Dinner and Auction to benefit the Walla Walla Community College's Enology and Viticulture Program. This year, it was held on Saturday, October 12th. Guests and honorees were greeted by Dr. Alan Busacca, Director of the Enology and Viticulture Program, and WWCC President Dr. Steven VanAusdle. The 2013 Distinguished Graduates being honored were Matt Huse (Five Star Cellars) Marcus Miller (Airfield Estates) Chris Peterson (Avennia) and Tanya Woodley (SuLei Cellars). Culinary Arts honorees were Brian Mahan (Graze Catering) and Caren McIntyre (Bon Appetit). During the reception and silent auction, appetizers were served along with College Cellars" Sparkling Riesling and wines poured by participating wineries. During the four course dinner, the live auction proceeded with such items as a Dinner with Philippe Michel and Brandon Kubrock, a custom wine rack with wines (some donated by yours truly), a terroir tour with "Dr. Dirt" (Dr. Alan Busacca), and more. It was a fun filled evening, and we came home with some goodies, including four magnums and a couple of private wine tastings. All this for a good cause.

 

Coming Soon: Walla Walla Fall Release Weekend

This year, Fall Release Weekend will be early, November 1st through 3rd. We have been visiting many wineries which have been previewing their upcoming releases, many of which will be reviewed in the November issue which goes on line a few days early, October 29th, accompanied by that week's blog, lisiting recommended wineries to visit. Watch for it!