Vineyard Update

Thanks to the normal rainfall we received throughout the winter and early spring, our vineyard soils are in excellent condition. The moisture has recharged the ground, creating a strong foundation for the growing season. As a result, our vines are looking incredibly healthy and full of energy as they begin the journey toward harvest. In terms of timing, we’re right on track with last year. If the weather follows its usual patterns over the next few months, we anticipate that harvest will begin in the first part of September. While we still have a long way to go, everything so far has been “normal” by historical standards—and that’s a good thing.

Over the past month the vine shoots have almost tripled in length! The vines are looking extremely healthy!

One of the most important and delicate stages of the grapevine’s lifecycle has just begun: flowering, also known as bloom. This phase is when pollination and fertilization take place, eventually forming the grape clusters that we’ll harvest in the fall. Unlike many other crops, grapevines are self-pollinating. Each tiny flower contains both male and female parts, so they don’t require bees or external pollinators. Instead, they rely on calm weather and the wind to move pollen.

That said, weather during bloom is incredibly important. Conditions that are too wet, too hot, or too windy can interfere with pollination. Grape flowers have a narrow comfort zone—they need things to be “just right” in order to turn into healthy, uniform grape clusters. As June sets in, we’re hoping for those ideal conditions to see the vines through this critical stage successfully.

Even though the “flowers” are tiny, they emit a beautiful floral scent throughout the vineyard!

Meanwhile, we’re also managing the canopy, which is growing rapidly. One of the key vineyard tasks we recently completed is shoot thinning. This involves removing weaker, smaller shoots from each vine so that the stronger ones can thrive. Shoot thinning helps control the vine’s crop load, prevents overcrowding, and ensures the plant’s energy is focused where it matters most. After thinning, we adjust the trellis system by moving the support wires up, encouraging the remaining shoots to grow vertically. This keeps the canopy well organized and helps with light exposure, air circulation, and disease prevention, especially mildew.

A typical “foggy” morning here in the Estate Vineyard. We are only fourteen miles from the Pacific Ocean!

The fog in the Russian River Valley AVA of Sonoma County plays a vital role in shaping its renowned winegrowing conditions. Each day, cool coastal fog flows inland over the low lying coastal hills and along the Russian River, blanketing vineyards and dramatically moderating temperatures. This cooling influence slows grape ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing flavor complexity—ideal for varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The daily fog cycle creates a distinct diurnal temperature swing, protecting grapes from heat stress while extending hang time. This unique microclimate fosters elegant, balanced wines, making fog the defining natural element of the region’s viticultural identity!

On behalf of the entire team here at River Road Family Vineyards and Winery, we wish you all continued good health!