As we start getting closer to harvest, it is a good time to review berry sampling, and how to get the most representative samples possible from your vineyard. In the attached video Chris Chen walks you through the steps, but to summarize, you need at least 50 different berries (preferably 100) from 50 different bunches (preferably 100) and from within different zones on each bunch. Some from the sun side, some from the shade side, some from bottom, middle and shoulders. Grapes on a single bunch can vary by up to 5 brix, so you want to equalize it out. Also don’t wait until the end of the day, it is best to sample at the same time you would be picking!
Also, I was playing with the idea of an informal winemakers meeting to go over possible winemaking decisions and what the options might be for those who are making their own wine. If there is an interest, just let me know. – Pietro
