We finished harvest by Thanksgiving, just in time for frost to challenge us over the last ten days. This year’s harvest was plentiful and of very good quality. We had to hustle because so many of the grapes became ripe at the same time. We had the largest Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese crop ever, with some new vines that were interplanted and some grafts that produced for the first time. The popularity of our Los Alamos Sangiovese has attracted several wineries to buy grapes from us.

For the first time, we are trying to make a Late Harvest Orange Muscat along with our Late Harvest Muscat Canelli. Megan has her hands full with the size of the crop and the number of wines we make. She and her staff do an outstanding job with our wines.

2021 Sparkling Rosato: A few days ago, I opened a bottle of this Sparkling Rosato and I couldn’t believe the power. It was so powerful that the cork flew between my fingers and hit the roof of the Toccata Tasting Room, of course bouncing on a table of guests. This one was made with a base of Chardonnay in the tradition of Champagne but with additions of Dolcetto and Malvasia Bianca. The flavors are alive and by that I mean that Dolcetto gives it freshness while the Malvasia gives a hint of flowers and spice. I would describe it as fun. A party sparkler!

2020 Riserva: This one belongs in the category of super reds, with a dominance of Cabernet complemented by Sangiovese. This true Super Tuscan is just one super wine - age-worthy and adding elegance to your holiday table. Be active when swirling it in your glass. Give it a chance to open up.

2019 Rosso Dolce: I was surprised at how good this wine is. I think it is a mistake to tell anyone that it is sweet. I find it to be elegant and with flavors that come from the balance of acid and sugar that become similar to the flavors of raspberry and strawberry. It is a powerful wine. This variety has strong tannins. In California, this variety does not exist. In Italy, it goes back to the 1700’s and is one of the foundation wines.

It is hard to believe that another year is coming to the finish line. The race of 2023 was filled with artificial intelligence, so hopefully the new year will bring us back to reality! This is an old vineyard farmer proverb. Make this season a happy one with friends, family, and our favorite wine!