2009 Grapes are in! This has been a great harvest. Horse Heaven Tempranillo came in a week earlier than normal, as did all of the other varieties. Looking back at my journals I noticed that I crushed Merlot on October 20th in 1997. The last two years we've had Merlot harvested by September 20th. This whole global warming thing is wonderful! In another 12 years I'll have crush done by 4th of July.
As you can see by the picture below, we received a light snow two days after the estate vineyard was picked. We had 70 degree weather for the harvest party. Wierd, Huh?
Library tasting is set for November 15th, Sunday before Thanksgiving. Employee of the Month Runner-up, Ryan and myself will be pouring every red wine we've produced going back to 1995. If you know of another winery that throws out dozens and dozens of old vintages of Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Lemberger, Syrah and Port, call me and I'll pick you up. This event is free but I do ask that you RSVP. Wayne B. is not welcome to attend this year's library tasting. Last year he RSVPd but never showed up. If Wayne B. would have simply called and cancelled, I could have let other people attend. Wayne B., you should be ashamed of yourself.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner. We'll have our usual open house. Fun, fun, fun. I will be releasing several new wines. Be the first on your block to get the new vintages.
If you have any questions, feel free to drop me an email. (joel@windrivercellars.com) I'll be happy to tell you all about things here at Husum's favorite winery. Even you can email me, Wayne B.
We've got life on a downhill pull, Husum!
Joel

The high chance of rain today turned into an highly unlikely snowfall. It's all melted now. It made for a chilly morning crushing Tempranillo.
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