Wine, a work in progress

"April could be considered the heart of Spring, with warmer weather, longer days, and bright blooming flowers.

That is especially true at the Wetzel Family Estate. The vineyards are waking up, with new leaves and tendrils unfurling each day. Like farmers across the country, we see this as a season of hope and promise.

Even after all these years, it is still exciting when the quiet stillness of winter gives way to renewal, growth, and possibility. After months of cold, bare landscapes, the first buds on trees and the return of vibrant colors remind us that our work is just beginning."

- The Family Team, Alexander Valley Vineyards, 4/1/26

"Our 41,000 individual grapevines are waking up from winter hibernation right now. After big rains and some unexpected warm stretches, the last couple weeks were a sprint to finish pruning before budbreak. New green growth on these vines means we’re officially in the 2026 growing season."

- Maggie Tillman & the Alta Colina team, Alta Colina Winery, 3/18/26

"I spent some time out in our Estate vineyards recently, walking the rows with our vineyard team and taking in one of the most important parts of the season: Pruning

It’s late winter, and while the vines still look quiet, this is where so much of the vintage begins. Pruning helps the vine focus its energy, rather than growing wild and overproducing. By cutting the vine back now, we’re helping control yield, encourage even ripening, and support healthy growth as the season unfolds.

Sadie Drury, our Vineyard Manager (if you haven't met her, she’s not only the coolest but wicked smart), leads the efforts, and it’s incredible to watch her and the rest of the vineyard crew.

It’s a good reminder that great wine truly starts long before harvest. Even in this quieter season, there’s meaningful work happening in the vineyard every day, setting the stage for what we hope will be a strong vintage ahead."

Warmly,

- Melissa Clubb, Brand Manager/Third Generation Family Member, L'Ecole Nº 41, 2/6/26