Day 1: Wine, Smoke & Excitement

I turned out our gravel road towards my first winery job destination. Today was “Safety & Orientation”. I had (and have) no idea what I’m in for, undertaking a position as a Harvest Intern. All I know is that my studies in wine over these past several years and interest in all elements therein have brought me here, to this little winery on the hill. When I came to interview, the assistant winemaker was kind and genuine, I immediately liked her, and said, YES…I can (and want) to do this. And now here I am. Once an Organic Farmer, I suppose it’s no surprise that I’m drawn to the grapes in the vineyard, how they are grown, nurtured and harvested…as well, the scientist in me wants to understand how this fermentation process happens that creates the magical beverage that is wine. So, here I go!

Last week smoke engulfed the whole area including these vineyards and likely the vineyards we will receive grapes from. With that, plus the 2020 talk point that is COVID-19, everyone just remarks “it’s going to be an interesting vintage”. Hmmm. I wonder how it will turn out?

Tanks, hoses, generators, gloves, splash guards and eye-wash stations…the working winery is certainly not a glamorous place by any means, any where (not even in Burgundy!). But it’s raw and real and difficult and gritty, so I am curious. Let’s see how this goes! Stay tuned!!!