Picking Cabernet Franc: A Family and Friends Affair
By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief
Sunday morning, I was joined by several New York Cork Report readers, other bloggers and their families to pick cabernet franc grapes at Raphael as a part of the 'Sonis Cellars 2009 harvest (read more about my ongoing 'Sonis Cellars project).
It was a truly perfect, sunny, mild day for picking and I think the group had a great time. I shot video throughout the day and put together this clip that I hope captures the fun of the day — especially the fun that my son, Jackson, had helping out. You'll no doubt notice a cluster of grapes in his left hand pretty much throughout the day. Nena had to pry it from his hands at before they got home for his nap.
Clearly, he is at home in a vineyard.
Oh, and for those who are curious, the grapes were around 21 brix or so and had really nice, only gently herbal green flavors. No bell pepper cab franc here folks.
What a charming and sweet video! Congratulations on the ‘Sonis Cellars project. Cannot wait to taste!
vineyard manager in training is right!! Too cute!
By the way, that’s Michael Gorton of Undertaking Wine in the opening screenshot of the video. Jackson was his shadow for a good half hour.
Awesome Video! Glad I made the cut
Had a ball, Lenn, thanks for putting this together and the invite.
BTW, Jackson was the best shadow…such a great kid you and Nena have.
Lenn… how about an update (maybe not on your site, but an email to the attendees) about the progress of our liquid gold? Is the natural fermentation underway? How is it progressing? What’s up next before getting this into barrel?
You are probably going to hate that I participated this year - - - I’m gonna want constant updates on venture.
I’m already excited about doing this again next year, too (there will be a next year, right?!!)
PS: I’ve already got a draft label designed (I know… I’m a geek and way ahead of the game here). Anyway, a winery called “Foley” already exists in California so I’ll have to name my new “winery” Foley Family Vineyards from this point forward.
Thanks again for the invite this year. You may not be able to get rid of me now!
Lenn… just saw your barrel tasting of the Martha Clara rose and it made me think of these barrels of Cab Franc from Raphael.
Have you tasted? Are there blending plans yet? Any updated would be appreciated.