Farming Practices
The farm is a complex ecosystem. Over millennia the various flora, fauna, (and fungi!) have responded to changes in weather and ownership to find temporary states of harmony. When we purchased the land, for 200 years the previous owners had farmed apples and pears, raised sheep, and harvested timber. No doubt we continued to alter the natural ecosystem when we planted vines on the pastureland. We recognize, however, the importance of nurturing the land as it seeks to regain a new state of balance. We are stewards of this beautiful spot for as long as we or our ancestors live here. Once we turn to dust, however, the land will persist. We, like the Native Americans before us, try to make decisions thinking about the Seven Generations that follow us.
How we farm
We are certified organic farmers. We do not upset the soil and disc the rows focusing our efforts on growing grass that nurtures the tiny micro-organisms that live beneath the surface. We also minimize and eliminate sources of erosion so our watershed is healthy. We use bio-diesel in our tractors reducing our reliance on certain fossil fuels and suffer the smell of French fries while we work. We also power our vineyard and winery via solar panel arrays. Can you taste the effects of the above practices? Probably not, but perhaps the intention behind them comes through in the wines.
The Crew
Lastly, we employ 10 year-round workers in the vineyard. Many of them have worked at our vineyard for years and have become a highly skilled and integral part of our “terroir.” We consider them part of our family and we pay them well for their time and dedication. Having our own "crew" is rare - as it is expensive - but the care and attention they give our vineyard translates into the wine you drink.
