Awaiting Bud break: The Promise of a Thriving Vineyard Season
Spring has arrived on Chehalem Mountains in all its glory and bud break in the vineyards is imminent!
We have had our share of winter weather; snow, ice, fog, rain. The usual midwinter break of clement weather in February enabled workers all over the valley to prune vines.
Now we are finally getting some sunny days, not too many, but enough to do outside chores such as tending the vines and gardens. Temperatures have been cool but not cold, therefore extending the bloom for daffodils and tulips. Even the flowers on the ornamental pear trees at the end of the garden held on for an extended period.
From Dormancy to Life: The Excitement of Bud break in the Vineyards
In the vineyards, we are awaiting bud break. Our average bud break here on Chehalem Mountains is May 1st and it seems as though this year we will be right on target. The vines usually come out of dormancy about mid-March. Gradually the buds swell and burst open, pushing out the new leaves and grapes for the season. This process is called “bud break” and all of the consequent calendar of growth for the season is determined from this event.
Because of our altitude (800-1,200 feet), our vineyard growing season is 2 – 3 weeks later than of the valley. The lag continues all the way to harvest. Consequently we rarely have a vintage where our fruit is overly ripe. This contributes to the character of Three Feathers wines; bright fruit flavors, mildly acidic with notes of herbs and minerals.
Three Feathers Wines Sales are on the Rise
Our wine sales continue to grow. In May, Three Feathers Pinot POP will be featured by local specialty grocery – Market of Choice – with eleven stores throughout Oregon.
We were once again present at the Vinexpo in Paris this February where Elise and Francois met with buyers from around the world. Our 2021 Pinot Gris was highlighted by Konstantin Baum in a Masterclass at the trade show.
We are pleased to be representative of the Oregon Wine tradition; small production vineyards, locally owned and operated. We still do our own marketing, distribution and deliveries! Tastings at the property are a very personal affair.
Over the past 10 years the quality of the wines here in Oregon have attracted attention from around the world. As more and more large producers buy up local vineyards we are losing this Personal Touch. The effect is felt throughout. Even the tasting rooms are becoming impersonal.
We focus on Direct-to-Consumer sales. Our faithful Sales Associate, Sandra Hogan, and team member Stacey Slack make the rounds of our local vendors for wine tasting demonstrations. As growers and winemakers, we enjoy sharing our story and experiences with the general public over a glass. The wine sells itself!
Join us at our 7th Annual Memorial Weekend Wine Tasting Open House
It’s not easy to do it all ourselves, however for our customers and club members the result of this care and attention creates a memorable experience. Please join us at our Memorial Weekend Open House on Sunday, May 26th from 12 noon to 5 pm when we open our home, gardens and vineyard to you.
