tank force of nature mary mary incredible

Swarms of wasps could be found attacking grape clusters in the top vineyard causing all kinds of damage. The drama of 2010 was quickly eclipsed by the wasp infestation in 2013. This was also the worst growing season the Okanagan had seen in years and many speculated the fruit would not even ripen. They ate one ton of grapes (yes, an entire ton) in one night. In 2010 we had two baby cubs break into the vineyard. Even the ‘perfect’ growing season can usher in unforeseen pitfalls like off-the-chart brix, overflowing tank space or uncontrollable birds. Trying to maintain some level of control over what is happening in the vineyard is made almost impossible by the sheer force of Mother Nature’s will. Something I did not know before I entered the wine business is that farming is actually really dramatic. James will be the first to tell you that harvest is the MOST wonderful time of the year but the opportunity to experience it with such a stellar group of people, well it really doesn’t get better than that. Honestly, we had an incredible group of friends and family that arrived weekend after weekend, eager for fresh fall air, grape-picking giggles, and a glass of wine (or two) with lunch. This early start made for warm days and the happiest harvesters. We are making a sparkling for the first time this year so harvest started almost a month earlier than normal. Here is a little look inside #BCHarvest2017. That being said, I would be lying if I said I could remember a year where everything went according to plan. Sounds great, doesn’t it? It is actually. With the help of friends and family, we harvest these grapes in small batches, and once they are harvested, James happily spends long days earning his grape-stained palms and wet, muddy boots.

Octo| Joanna Schlosser Harvest Happeningsĭid you know that all Niche Wine is produced entirely from grapes grown by Hugh and Mary Vineyard? This small piece of paradise is located in West Kelowna and owned and operated by James’ parents, Kathleen and Jerry.

Tank force of nature mary mary incredible