Harvest Has Begun?

Harvest 2022 has begun. We have carefully planned and plotted this amazing winemaking opportunity in South Africa. I somehow got my entire family here, got the kids to school and got into the wine scene. 

Upon my arrival I visited wineries and vineyards and chatted up every wine person I possibly could! Finally settling on 3 varieties (Chenin blanc, Clairette blanche and Pinotage). 

From overseeing the pick, to sorting through the berries, I am thoroughly enjoying this slowed down experience. 

Harvest at Trail Estate is always dynamic and exciting, but it is BUSY!!!! Trying to balance staff, family and grapes take up a lot of time and energy. By the end of harvest I am burnt out and needing time to recover. 

That is why I am so thankful for this opportunity. I will have only 3 tanks to manage and the harvest dates are spaced out. I can fully concentrate on these wines and I can reflect during harvest! 

Currently the Chenin has been destemmed and the natural ferment is just starting to kick off!