FHV planted 3.2 acres of Chardonnay 76 bringing our total planted acreage of all varieties to 93.  When we began planting in 1983 we were hoping to plant the original 80 acres in three years, but phylloxera, inexperience, and youthful exuberance we underestimated by 33 years.  Still all in all quite a feeling of accomplishment.  The growing season was once again warm and we rushed into harvest on September 6 and finished with Pinot Blanc on October 3.  Early returns from the wineries are very promising.

Because we have had several dry years recently overall vigor has been suppressed and as a response we have been removing permanent cover crop in various blocks to limit competition for available water.  Bit of a tough decision because this means more tractor work and dust.  This is year 3 of FHV being herbicide free necessitating more mechanical weed control beneath the vines. The goal is to nurture soil health ultimately reflected in wine quality.  We are also pleased to announce we were certified sustainable by Food Alliance in 2018.

We continue to be proud of the recognition our winery partners have earned in the market place and are happy to have added over the last couple of years Kelly Fox, Mark Ryan Winery, and Illahee Vineyards.  2018 was also the first harvest following the passing of Patty Green and she was sorely missed, however the PGC family pulled together and continues to do wonderful things.  If you haven’t done so already, please lift a glass to in tribute to Patty, a super person and winemaker.