Vintage 2026 is almost done here in the Coal River Valley, and I think waist-deep might be an understatement at this point! It’s always a familiar, frantic, and incredibly rewarding hum of activity that defines this time of year.
This season has thrown a bit of a curveball into the mix, though. Balancing the intensity of vintage with the day-to-day energy of the tasting room has been a delicate dance. It’s a lot of hats to wear at once, even for someone used to the juggle.
But honestly? I couldn’t ask for a better crew to be in the trenches with. Between Guy, Nicole, Callum, Vanessa, and Macca, the winery and the tasting room are in the best possible hands. And, of course, there’s Nell making sure no one takes themselves too seriously and providing the necessary moral support (and tail wags) when the days get long.
Despite the lack of sleep and the logistical puzzles, there’s been so much joy in the air this year.
