The new landscape at Fence Stile

As you may know, the landscape at Fence Stile has changed over the last few weeks.  We have planted two new varietals - Crimson Cabernet & Cabernet Dore.  Both of these varietals are from Davis Viticultural Research and are now grown in 26 states but taste different based on the regional differences of terroir and the vineyard management. 

Crimson Cabernet is a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Norton.  Cabernet Dore has a more complicated parentage - 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Cabernet Franc, 25% Vitis Cinerea, 13% Enfarine Noir and 12% unknown but takes on most of the characteristics of a Sauvignon Blanc.  We should be able to release the Cabernet Dore in 2020 and the Crimson Cabernet in 2021 (depending on how we choose to make these wines).  Both of these will have a percent of the harvest allocated for CELLAR57 wines and the rest will be in the tasting room.  We are very excited to work with these two new varietals.

This last week of prep and planting reminded me a lot of our 2007 days when we first planted - while the varieties were different, the energy and excitement are the same.  And planting these new blocks gave me lots of time to think - the last year has been about mourning what was - the new plantings are about a new beginning and the next phase.  As I said a few months ago, 2015 was about surviving, 2016 is about rebuilding.  These new blocks represent the 2020 vision.  We have new vines, a new team, more progress on the building and landscape and renewed energy to provide a memorable wine experience for every guest (new and returning)!  


New events are being added with more to come.  The new deck is finished and furnished!  The CELLAR57 club has launched and has several members enjoying the wine and the space.  The Cellar Garden is back in bloom.  The landscape at Fence Stile has changed but the goal has not - provide a memorable experience.  Thank you to everyone who is participating in the journey!