Following the 2026 Growing Season | Veraison
Veraison has begun in the northern portion of our vineyard, with Cabernet Sauvignon leading the way into this important stage of the growing season.
Veraison marks the beginning of grape ripening. Before this stage begins, the berries are small, firm, and an opaque green. As veraison progresses, the vine gradually shifts its energy from vegetative growth (leaves and shoots) to ripening the fruit itself. In red varieties, berries transition from green to shades of purple, while white varieties become more translucent and take on golden hues. This change happens gradually, berry by berry, leaving clusters as a beautiful mosaic of green and ripening fruit until veraison is complete.
During this time, the berries also soften and swell as their metabolism shifts toward accumulating sugars while acidity gradually comes into balance.
Our winemaker Natalie says, When veraison begins, your mind immediately shifts to harvest. After months of speculating what the vintage might become, you finally start see the first real glimpse of its potential. From that point on, it’s a countdown — and a constant reminder that we’re at the mercy of Mother Nature. Harvest is coming, whether we’re ready or not. It’s always an exciting time!”
Once veraison is consistent throughout the vineyard, harvest is typically 30 to 60 days away, depending on the growing season. Until then, Natalie and our vineyard crew’s “spidey senses will be tingling” as they continue to closely monitor each block as the fruit matures. For now, the vineyard enters one of its most beautiful and closely watched seasons, as each day brings the fruit one step closer to harvest.
