As summer settles into the Lewis-Clark Valley, the vineyard comes alive in a different way. The quiet precision of spring gives way to a season of active management, where every decision is focused on guiding the vine toward balance, ripeness, and ultimately, exceptional fruit. Beneath the long, sun-filled days along the river, our team works row by row, shaping the canopy and preparing the vineyard for the demands of harvest.
One of the most important tasks this time of year is canopy management. Through careful leaf stripping, we open up the fruit zone to allow sunlight to reach the grape clusters while improving airflow. This not only enhances ripening and flavor development but also reduces the risk of mildew and disease. At the same time, we begin hedging, trimming back rapidly growing shoots to maintain structure and keep the vine’s energy focused where it matters most. It’s a balance between encouraging healthy growth and ensuring the vine doesn’t become overgrown and inefficient.
Alongside canopy work, we closely monitor irrigation to support the vines through the heat of summer. Water is applied thoughtfully, encouraging deep root systems while avoiding excess vigor. Meanwhile, our team remains vigilant in pest and disease monitoring, walking the vineyard daily to catch any issues early. These small, consistent observations are what allow us to farm sustainably and respond with intention rather than reaction.
Summer in the vineyard is both demanding and deeply rewarding. It’s a season where the vintage begins to reveal itself, shaped by the hands that tend each vine and the natural rhythm of the land. Every pass through the rows brings us one step closer to harvest, with the promise that the work done now will be carried forward into every bottle we produce.
