I can’t believe that we are in the last week of harvest! The crop size was smaller than what I expected. We had one exceptionally high heat spike but survived it well. In most cases, I would rate the quality of this year’s grapes as outstanding. Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay should be one of our best vintages.

2020 Sparkling Wine: This is the same Lucas & Lewellen Sparkling Wine we have been making for 24 years now with a 50/50 co-fermented blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. “Co-fermentation” is the fermenting together of the two varieties of grapes, rather than blending of finished wines. One must get the grapes ripe at the same time to be picked on the same day.

This is a refreshing Sparkling Wine. I think that the Chardonnay shows a little dominance over the Pinot Noir. This one gives you a great reason to celebrate.

2019 Cabernet Sauvignon “Clone 6”: Still the most dominant red wine that we make. This wine is as good or better than the few Clone 6 Cabernets produced in Napa Valley, which sell for 3-6 times the price of ours. It is made from 100% “Clone 6” Cabernet grapes. The berry size is a little bit smaller than other clones of Cabernet, which adds to the dark, saturated, red color from the skins, and limited production yields. At harvest time, the small berry size allows for more uniformity of the grapes in maturity, sugar content, and color. This wine achieves perfection without the need for any additions. You might cellar it for ten years but is ready to be enjoyed this holiday season.

We have much to be thankful for: God’s blessings, family and friends, freedom, and another successful harvest. I especially want to recognize the efforts of our grape pickers and Megan’s magic, which will allow us to share this gratitude together in the New Year to come.