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Hi All…
Well, long time no news, no more. I hope you all love the new website. News, News, News- where do I start- in the vineyard of course.
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down in the vineyard…
The Verdelho vines grew well this year and delivered it’s first crop. We harvested a small one of 300kg, which was crushed with the local grapes we purchased. The analysis of the juice from the Verdelho is perfect which shows our nutrition is spot on. We have used only organic seaweed solution and as they are grown on their own roots, they are forced to grow deep and to “ search” for their nutrition and moisture. We will be planting another acre of Verdelho later in the spring.
The young Pinotage have really come on and the difference in the 2 blocks is hardly recognisable. This is really exciting as we now expect our first crop next year.
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the wines…
On the wine side all is very well. The Double Gold Verdelho 2008 sold out in 8 months. Production has been doubled and we will be releasing the 2009(yes, this one that’s just finished fermenting) on 1 May. It is showing typical Verdelho tones and should be a cracker. I have also made a Gewurztraminer- watch this space!
The vintage started earlier on 16 January (hardly dusted off the party shoes from the Magic Millions) and has been a busy one. I have a very good team working for me and both Karen and Kieren have ensured it has run smoothly.
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on the estate…
The winery plans have finally come to fruition. The big rainwater tank has been moved, a concrete slab laid outside the shed for processing, new tractor shed put up and electricity and water piped to the winery. This, of course [as you do], in the middle of vintage.
The plant and equipment has arrived. A brand new, state of the art, 3.5 ton fully enclosed airbag press will be my pride and joy (sorry peugeot). Tanks, crusher, cooling system, forklift have followed and will be ready for the new vintage.
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blinky…
Our part time resident Kaola, has made a timely return from the hill for the launch of the Gewurtztraminer.
"He proved a great hit with visitors over the long weekend."
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Ah, fill the Cup: -- what boots it to repeat
How Time is slipping underneath our Feet:
Unborn To-morrow, and dead Yesterday,
Why fret about them if To-day be sweet!
Omar Kahyamm |
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Finally I would like to thank ICP Craftpress for designing this beautiful website. If any of you who have made the "Highlands Change", need websites or printing etc – the ICP Craftpress team are the ones to contact.
All the best till next time
Cheers in wine…
Mark
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