This amazing winter brought us twice as much precipitation as normal (32 inches compared to an average of 12-15 inches). The story can be seen through the photos below from the snow in the mountains and flowing streams to the growing cover crop and the resilient plants responding to the saturated soil with vigorous growth and a great fruit set. Thanks to all who joined us for our Memorial Weekend Work Party. You helped the vineyard thrive!
The winter vineyard 
soaked in the rains 
and the cover crop grew. 
The rains continued. 
8 inches of snow broke some olive tree limbs. 
But the rainbows forecasted an amazing spring. 
Winter was time to shape the vines for spring growth. 
There was lots of pruning. 
and sculpting. 
Mission 
accomplished together! 
Budbreak brings on spring growth. 
Steve prepares the vineyard dust mulch. 
Soon all the vines leaf out. 
Grape bunches begin to form. 
And then flower. 
Olive trees flower later in May. 
And soon form baby olives. 
We welcomed the hard workers for our annual work party. 
We worked together 
disbudding 
Weeding 
and planting. 
Making gopher baskets, 
Some made signs for their new plants. 
And we experiment with agave! 
We feasted 
with Chef Molly 
and enjoyed dutch ovens. 
Our time together 
was so special. 
Relaxing around the campfire. 
Over a game of chess. 
With long time friends. 
The fruit is set. 
And we thank the work weekenders 
for helping Condor’s Hope 
to thrive!
