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NEWS ARCHIVE

2008 Overview

2008 was an interesting year. Our site generally has a late bud break so we missed the early spring frost. Temperatures during the growing season were warmer then previous years so we anticipated a great year. October 9th was the end of the growing season as a cold winter frost swept down from the north and cut our growing season by a month. Our sugar levels however were in an acceptable range, but it would have been better if it stayed warmer through the end of October ( Indian Summer ). Our site grows high quality varietals, but the weather must cooperate. Ideal quality can be achieved with a mild frost free spring and a long growing season without a fall frost. This years wine was still exceptional with vibrant fruit and clonal characteristics. We are looking forward to 2009.

Posted July 8, 2009

 
 

Harvest
2007 was a cooler year then previous years. This presented a number of challenges. Early October we were hit with rain and an early frost. It seemed the season was over and we would be unable to ripen the remaining fruit. By mid-October it warmed up and Indian summer returned until the first few days of November. Even though the vines started to shut down earlier than anticipated we were hoping that the Zinfandel and Cabernet Franc would continue to develop with more structure and flavor. Every year seems to be different at our site and global warming over the past few years has contributed to an unpredictable growing season and reduced GDD (growing degree days). If you're not in a rush to harvest and allow the fruit a little longer hang time you could be rewarded in both improved quality and clonal character.
Posted on 03 Jan 2008 by Staff
Varietals Page Updated
The varietals page has been updated and now includes an image of the vineyard layout and other information about the vines and where they are located at the site. For a direct link go to: http://www.hawkcreekvineyard.com/varietals.html
Posted on 04 Jun 2007 by Staff
Past News
11/28/2002

Varietals Page has been added.

12/20/2002

A 60 + gallon per minute well has been completed at a depth of 180 feet. This will provide sufficient water for future expansion and development. The well currently artesians at approximately 20 + gallons per minute.

2/15/2003

Grower's contracts welcomed. Winery or custom crush relationships available.

Sites for lease with full management.

To visit: by appointment only, inquire through contact page.

Vineyard supplies available through Eastman International 510-834-3416

9/5/2003

Management and consultation by Naylor Farms.

11/25/2003

This year we had our first harvest. Viognier 1/2 ton, Cabernet Franc 3/4 ton, Zinfandel 2 tons. All were of exceptional quality and with full flavor. Brix 23.5-26. This year we had a few fat turkeys but we will be ready in 2004.

7/28/2004

Recently completed a 3.5 k/w solar panel system which is primarily used for irrigation. All solar panels are available through Eastman International - Seeco Division.

8/20/2004

Installed "Bird Gard" units to control and eliminate bird pressure in the vineyard. Units are available through Eastman International. 510-834-3416

3/29/2005

Contact form fixed. Wine Covers now on sale, only $5 each. Contact Eastman International at 510-834-3416.

6/5/2005

We have completed our bottling of our 2003 zinfandel and for the first year it is remarkable.

7/1/2005

Recently completed fertigation unit to improve overall micronutrients of the vines.

11/12/2005

Completed harvest of all varietals for 2005. All were exceptional and well balanced with intense flavors which should make a high quality varietal wine.

7/5/2006

We recently planted primitivo #5 and #6, which will make a distinct varietal or compliment a blend.