A Journey into Winemaking: From Newbies to Carpe Diem

In late June 2022, we embarked on an exciting new chapter when we purchased a ranch in Oakland, Oregon. At the heart of this 80-acre property lies a 2-acre vineyard, planted in 2010. We dreamed of creating a family business that combined our passions for nature, science, and meaningful connections with others. None of us anticipated just how challenging and rewarding this journey would be.

As July rolled in, we took a closer look at our vineyard and recognized the need to learn how to properly train our vines. Brimming with naive optimism, we wondered, “How difficult could it be?” However, after diving into various YouTube tutorials, we found ourselves embroiled in spirited discussions (and a bit of disagreement) over the best vine training techniques. While some vines needed to be lifted through the wires, others required a downward approach. Juggling this new venture alongside our full-time jobs posed a challenge, yet we devoted our evenings and weekends to preparing the vineyard for its first harvest.

Our dedication was put to the test when the director of the Southern Oregon Wine Institute visited. Excited and proud of our vine training efforts, we were met with constructive feedback about the condition of our grapes; they required sulfur treatment to combat powdery mildew. Fortunately, we connected with knowledgeable vineyard managers who generously shared their expertise on caring for our grapes, providing guidance that proved invaluable.

When harvest time finally arrived, we gathered what amounted to just one barrel of grapes—a modest yield but one rich in ambition and enthusiasm. Inspired by our journey, we chose to name our first vintage of Pinot Noir from the 2022 harvest “Carpe Diem,” embodying our philosophy of seizing the day and making the most of every opportunity in winemaking.

To further advance our knowledge, we enrolled in the winemaking start-up program at the Southern Oregon Wine Institute, accelerating our learning journey far beyond what we could have achieved on our own. This program expanded our understanding of viticulture and the art of winemaking, fostering connections within the industry and deepening our commitment to producing quality wines.

As we look forward, we’re excited to share our experiences and the fruits of our labor with you all. Our journey into winemaking has equipped us with invaluable lessons and the joy of building something meaningful together as a family. Here’s to seizing the day and embracing the adventures that await us in the heart of our vineyard! Cheers!