Springtime at Le Vigne Winery
By John Yanes
Spring has sprung in Paso Robles, and our vines are off to a fantastic start in 2024. Let's take a closer look! Post 2023 harvest was our second successive winter in which rain totals surpassed previous vintages, and as a result, we’re expecting good vigor for the 2024 growing season. With heavy rainfall also comes the potential for risk of erosion and vine damage, but a warm week in early December allowed us to plant a cover crop. Pruning began later than most years due to the heavy rainfall, but mother nature provided just enough warm and dry days to complete in record time. I recently had the opportunity to speak with Winemaker Anthony Gallegos and asked him to fill me in on the past 4 months and the outlook for the 2024 vintage.
The freshly mowed cover crop of thatch, barley, and peas will add nutrients to the soil.
With heavy rainfall also comes the potential for risk of erosion and vine damage. However, we were fortunate to experience a warm week in early December. This window of opportunity allowed us to take a proactive approach by planting a cover crop of barley, thatch, and peas. This strategic measure helps to protect our precious topsoil from erosion caused by heavy winter rains. Additionally, the cover crop offers a habitat for beneficial insects and helps to fix nitrogen in the soil, promoting long-term vine health. So, while the winter rains brought potential challenges, our vineyard team’s swift action has mitigated those risks and set the stage for a thriving 2024 growing season.
Pruning season at Le Vigne Winery usually follows a familiar rhythm. However, this year, Mother Nature threw us a curveball. Heavy rainfall pushed back the start of pruning compared to previous years. But fear not, wine enthusiasts! Just when we thought the window might be closing, a streak of warm and dry days emerged. These unexpected collaborators allowed our dedicated team to complete the crucial pruning tasks in record time. With the vines meticulously shaped and ready for spring growth, we’re confident the 2024 season is poised for success.
At Le Vigne Winery, you can immerse yourself in this idyllic setting while enjoying a glass of our award-winning wines. Explore our charming tasting room, stroll through our picturesque vineyards, or relax on our patio with breathtaking views — the possibilities for creating lasting memories are endless. Come experience the magic of Spring at Le Vigne Winery!