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Vineyard Characteristics
The Hartford family farms its
vineyards to allow the vineyards
to display characteristics
that are unique to their sites.
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Farming to Show Vineyard Character
Soil
We have performed in depth soils analyses of each of our vineyards. Different soils have been identified and
vineyards were mapped into small blocks at the time of planting. Farming
practices and rootstock/clonal selections are then tailored to
the soils and other environmental conditions. Our goal is to allow
each specific block within a vineyard to express its optimum,
most distinctive character.
Sustainable Organic and Biodynamic Farming
The least invasive farming principles are followed. Organic
practices are employed in several of our vineyards and Biodynamic practices used at two sites.
Less is More
We believe that limited intervention promotes the expression of
vineyard personality or character and adds to our belief in
sustainability.
Vine Spacing
The vines are tightly spaced (from 4 by 6 feet to 5 by 8 feet,
depending on location). We believe that tight spacing encourages
competition among vines, promotes smaller cluster and berry size,
and accentuates the intensity of our wines.
Low Yields
We believe low yields generally produce more intense concentrated
flavors and textures. Our vineyards typically yield from as little
as .75 ton per acre to about 3 tons per acre.
Dry Farming
Several of our established vineyards are not irrigated. We feel
over-watering of vines produces more crop but dilutes flavors.
Harvest by Taste
We harvest when the flavors are right. We do not harvest our
grapes based solely on brix readings, or testing in the lab.
We consider such measurements to be valuable, but at Hartford
Family Winery, we harvest our grapes when we judge, by tasting,
that sugars, tannins, acids and most importantly flavors
are all optimum.
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