The first hint of russet leaves on the vines let us know magic is in the air as fall arrives in the Alexander Valley. The warm days and cool nights have matured the grapes to peak perfection. Over one hundred days ago, they first appeared as flowers on the vines; six weeks back, these grapes were green and hard, now they are soft and red. They are bulging with the perfect balance of sugars and acids. Yesterday was too early, tomorrow will be too late. Today is the day, today is harvest day. - JC