What's Happening In the Vineyards

It’s all go in the vineyard! Spring is always one of the busiest times of year — the grass is growing faster than we can mow it, the first fungicide sprays are going on, and those chilly mornings keep us on frost watch.

Luckily, we’ve got a crack team on board this season. Dave, Maria, and Lee have all joined Hunter’s since last harvest, bringing a mix of experience, enthusiasm, and a real commitment to getting the best out of our vines.

There’s also some shiny new kit on the way — our new Fendt 209 tractor (for the machinery geeks out there) will be arriving soon. It’ll be a big help keeping vineyard operations running smoothly as things ramp up.

Spring is when our regenerative practices really come to life. The cover crops are in full flower — a colourful mix of borage, phacelia, clover, and a few others humming with bees and beneficial insects. It’s a great sign that the vineyard ecosystem is healthy and thriving.

Over the next few weeks, the focus shifts to vine work. Early-season jobs like shoot thinning help declutter the canopy and improve airflow, while wire lifting trains the growing shoots upwards — keeping them neat, open to sunlight, and (hopefully) safe from those blustery nor’westers.

All of this sets the stage for a smooth summer and, fingers crossed, another excellent harvest ahead.