MAGGIO
May in west Michigan embraces grapevine planting.
We adore this time and the opportunity to make the most of these favorable conditions.
Weathered and craggy, wild Vitis riparia vines with twisted trunks snake up high into the treetop canopy.
Their age unknown, once discovered they foretold the possibility of future vineyards on this land.
A long forgotten row of red table grapes (Concord perhaps?) continues to sit idle on the northern edge of the property.
Grapevines were once commercially grown here? Yet another clue!
Small plots of experimental vines were established in 2019. Our oldest commercial vineyards were planted in 2021.
We have planted vines every year since. diligently, lovingly, and entirely by hand.
What grape varieties have we decided on? The varieties have chosen us!
Our soil, climate and winemaking suggest that certain grapes will be better suited than others. Vitis vinifera, PIWI, North American hybrids and Native American grape varieties are all represented. The future is biodiversity and this commitment extends to what IS PLANTED HERE.
AN Italian/SLOVENIAN grape written about since 1289?
Rebula we call her.
A rare clone of Pinot Nero that only one other grower in the entire country farms?
Wrotham, named after its place of origin.
The grape that most likely brought phylloxera from the new world to Europe?
Isabella she is! Also referred to as Uva Fragola because of its strawberry flavor. Zia Franca tends a vine YET growing in her mountain garden.
No spray varieties?
We are currently trialing eight different specimens, produced with passion and patience by a midwestern micro nursery.
OVER Thirty grape varieties in total. And many more to come… we hope!
Planting CAN BE TIRING AND challenging. Many hands make light work. La nostra famiglia continue the annual tradition.
The reward is longterm. Will the effort and wait be worth it? Time will tell. Our belief is strong.