If you get a chance to see a field of Pinot noir vines up close then take a minute to notice the veraison, or change of color in the grapes from green to dark purple. Most clusters are purple with just a few green grapes lagging behind. It’s a reminder that harvest is just around the corner.

The winery has also come alive as Michael and Bill start planning next years blend and preparing for harvest. The once-empty counters in the back are now covered with vials filled with single barrel samples and experimental blends. The hiss of nitrogen tanks and roar of forklifts are a nice change after a few months of quiet. Last week I walked in on our two winemakers and our harvest intern all sitting at a round table with 10 glasses of wine in front of each person. It reminded me of a poker game and their faces were just as serious.

The tasting room here at Panther Creek is located right inside the winery, so stop by and see it all happening.