Hey Folks,
Don’t post here frequently (ha!), but thought I’d present a harvest thread that’s image heavy. Opinions?
2026 harvest started today with all our Cara Mia Merlot. I’ll post ripeness and pH tomorrow when I get it in the fermenters. Our next pick is Thursday with Franc and Sauvignon beginning to come in. Temps are cooling to the middle 70’s after tomorrow - a wonderful break from the heat. Here are pics from last night’s sunset and this morning’s 5:00 AM pick.
Ben
Cadence/Cara Mia Vineyard
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How early compared with usual pick dates?
Gorgeous photography as always, Ben!
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“usual”, whatever that means these days, is generally around September 9th for Merlot. I think this is our second or third earliest harvest ever.
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an unwelcome guest arrived under a pick bin yesterday
and a few more pics. The juice sample is Petit Verdot. Yep, needs a little more time.
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pitching yeast this morning and assembling crusher/stemmer - always my favorite piece of equipment to photograph.
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The harvest in the Ladera Ranch AVA of Orange County started today.
All merlot and going towards rosé. Brix 23
