The 2024 Vintage: A Surprising Combo of Ripeness & Acidity

by Bettina Schiel | Nov 1, 2024 | About Cabernet

Overall, 2024 was a very warm growing season that resulted in excellent ripeness and also, surprisingly, excellent acidity. Leading up to the growing season, we had lots of rain in January and February, which filled the soil profile nicely.  What does this mean? In...

Understanding Sulfites in Wine: A Necessity for Quality and Longevity

by Bettina Schiel | Oct 22, 2024 | Odds & Ends

As fans of fine wine, you’ve likely heard that wine contains sulfites. You’ve probably also heard sulfites and sulfates used interchangeably. From this day forward, help me spread the word that they are nothing alike. Let’s start by defining each of these sulphur...

When Next in Wine Country, Don’t Miss Glen Ellen!

by Bettina Schiel | Jun 2, 2023 | Odds & Ends

Sonoma Valley: A Beautiful Destination Stretching 17 miles through rolling vineyards, lush forests, and stunning mountaintop vistas, Sonoma Valley will win you over with its breathtaking beauty, small-town charm, and warm hospitality. Just 45 miles north of San...

Organic Farming: Cover Crops or the Start of the Organic Farming Cycle

by Bettina Schiel | Jan 20, 2023 | Odds & Ends

Organic Farming: When Does the Cycle Begin? You could say that once the grape harvest ends, the organic farming cycle begins. Almost as soon as the last grapes are picked, the grape vines enter a period of extended dormancy. After working hard for months to ripen...