The coldest spring in ten years meant more time than usual frost fighting in our three vineyards.  However once the show weekend threshold past we experienced one of the best summers in recent years which allowed some beach time recovery and good conditions for flowering and fruit set. The lack of mid summer nor-weasters allowed our vineyard canopies to relax in the sun drenched still weather – giving good canopy growth, low vine stress and good ripening.  Just before harvest in mid March we had very warm nights which meant rapid accumulation of brix. 12 days straight of picking allowed us to capture our fruit in perfect condition with thick skins, moderate brix, and good levels of natural acidity.  It really was a good one.