Signs of Life

We've just had three days on 20C temperatures, probably the warmest days in the last six months. Thats really helped push things along in the vineyard.

Yesterday I noticed the first buds of the season had burst. There were a few in our Pinot Gris and, surprisingly, a few in the Riesling which is normally one of the later varieties to burst. Typically these early buds are nearest to the wooden posts and often at the end of the new cane that has been laid down.

This photo shows the unfolding of the first leaf. Amazing to think that already inside that newly opened bud are 2 or 3 bunches of grapes. Basically all they need now is heat, a little water and time...