Saturday. The Calm Before the Storm...

Parking lot, prior to opening

Combine harvest, peak autumn color, crisp autumn sunshine and what do you get? A manic day in the tasting room.

Burgeoning sippers, seasoned oenophiles and curious leaf peepers will soon descend, all hoping to experience the magical process of harvest to juice to wine. Some are not interested in magical processes. They’re simply on the hunt for a relaxing day (and a good grape buzz).

Early arrival is a must in order to prepare for the onslaught of thirsty wine seekers. Much to be done prior to the opening bell. Count all the bees in the hive…

Stock wine


Prep food for paid tastings


Sweep (why bother??)


Set up bar(s)


Run around like chicken minus head


Open bottles


Open more bottles


Lather. Rinse. Repeat. (These steps and many, many others will be repeated several times during the course of the day.)

Deep breath


Turn the sign from SHUT to OPEN. Stand back and


Let the games begin…



Doors open.....(just kidding)



Parking lot early afternoon.  (Yes, that is a traffic director.)