Harvest 2009 Summary:

As we settle into 2010, I finally find myself able to kick up my feet, exhale, and reflect a bit on the adventure that was “Harvest 2009” (cue epic background music)!   As always seems to be the case, it was the tale of two harvests.  In eastern Washington, as the persistently dry, warm September weather sent sugars soaring, we prepared ourselves for another early start.  My coveted Syrah arrived from Kiona Vineyards in Red Mountain safely to the winery in mid-September.  Hot on its heels came a new addition to the Hawkins Cellars’ lineup, Sangiovese, also from Kiona Vineyards.  Both lots consisted of big, beautiful clusters with no rot and very little dehydration.  Big kudos to Scott Williams and the crew at Kiona for once again providing us with world class fruit.

As the Red Mountain fruit settled in for its typically prolonged fermentation, we turned our attention to our backyard to see what mother nature had in store for the Willamette Valley.  And what a ride she gave us!  Unusually large berries at fruit set, and a cool, wet late September to early October left me holding my breath as to whether we could coax enough dry days to allow flavors to catch up with rising Brix levels.  But we settled into a nice dry, cool period in October, and my Pinot Noir from both Beacon Hill and Zenith Vineyards arrived in great shape, with balance, flavor, and character.

I’m really looking forward to sharing our ’09 wines with you this fall.  And come taste our offerings from the ’07 and ’08 vintage at our new tasting room located in the center of Carlton.  We will be selectively open weekends in February and March (check the website), with a big Grand Re-opening in April!

Cheers!
Thane Hawkins