We are now through bloom. For a look at bloom and bud break by block, visit the Vintage Data section of the website. During bloom there were a couple of rainy, cool weather periods so we will need to wait a week or so to know how well berries set.
In the vineyard, we are now working our second cordon suckering pass. During this second pass, we are also removing the lower two leaves to open up the canopy. With this season’s rain and cooler temperatures, it is important to open up the canopy for greater airflow. By doing so, we not only avoid disease but also help newly forming berries develop stronger and thicker cell walls through exposure to sunlight. We are also positioning the shoots vertically in the trellis wire and hedging the shoots to the proper length.