Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/188061
THE VOICE OF FIVE GENERATIONS Harvest at Wente Vineyards Hand-harvesting of Sauvignon Blanc in Wente Family Estates' Livermore Valley vineyards. V ineyards hang heavy with grape clusters, aromas of fermenting fruit fill the air and the pre-dawn hours are filled with gleaming lights and bustling men and women . . . it only means one thing in the wine world— harvest. After 130 years of winemaking, the Wentes have experienced all manners of harvest including Mother Nature's whim, exploration and changes in the law (e.g., Prohibition) and new vineyards and AVAs to work with. "This year, the Livermore Valley has seen a moderate summer with the cool marine influence lingering longer into the morning; this should make for another great vintage!" says Karl Wente, Fifth Generation Winemaker. "In Arroyo Seco, where we celebrate our 50th harvest this year, the fog dissipates late in the morning, creating unusually short days, which is exceptional for Pinot Noir culitivation (as well as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay). "In the vineyard, we continue to focus on the development of fruit flavors for whites and phenolic textures for reds. In the winery, we are ready to welcome these grapes and extract their beautiful flavors. We're looking forward to creating our 2013 vintage from the 31 different varieties we cultivate in two of California's notable winegrowing regions. " october 2013 / the tasting panel / 67 TP1013_066-107.indd 67 9/23/13 10:33 PM