Spring 2023 in Napa Valley
As winter gives way to spring, Napa Valley wine country comes alive with renewed energy and excitement. The first day of spring, also known as the vernal equinox, is a time of balance and harmony between light and dark, as well as a time of new beginnings. This year, the first day of spring was yesterday, March 20th, and it is an eagerly anticipated event in the wine country as it marks the start of the growing season for wine grapes.
The recent weather pattern in Napa Valley has been cold and wet, with several storms bringing above average rainfall to the region. The valley is recovering from a severe drought that has plagued the area for several years, but the recent storms have helped to alleviate some of the concerns about the water supply for the upcoming growing season.
With the arrival of spring, the grapevines in Napa Valley are beginning to wake up from their winter dormancy. Bud break, which is the first stage of the growing season, occurs when tiny buds on the grapevines begin to swell and eventually burst open. This process usually happens in late March or early April, depending on the weather conditions. Bud break in 2022 occurred the week of March 14 and in 2021, the week of March 19, so we are a little behind in our Mira Estate vineyard this year.
The start of the growing season is an exciting time for winemakers and growers alike, as it marks the beginning of the long journey towards producing the perfect bottle of wine. The grapevines will need careful attention and nurturing throughout the growing season, including meticulous canopy management, shoot positioning and integrated pest control. Winemakers will also need to monitor the weather closely, as extreme heat or cold can have a significant impact on the quality of the grapes. For example, frost can still be a risk to young buds into the first week or so of April.
The first day of spring in Napa Valley is also a time of celebration for locals and visitors alike. Many wineries and vineyards host special events and tastings to welcome the new season, and it’s an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of the valley and experience the flavors of the region. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply appreciate the natural beauty of the area, the first day of spring is a wonderful time to visit Napa Valley and immerse yourself in the magic of this vibrant and exciting wine region.
Here are several Mira wines that are perfect for enjoying during this spring and summer season:
Mira Estate White Blend 2021 – Aromas of citrus blossom, grapefruit, stone fruit and crushed stone are followed by bright citrus flavors and a lingering finish with mineral notes. Whole cluster pressed and consisting of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sauvignon Gris. Sauvignon Blanc fermented and aged in stainless steel as well as neutral French oak. Sauvignon Gris fermented and aged in the only Ovum wooden egg-shaped fermenter in the Americas.
Mira Franc Blanc 2021 – White floral notes, peach, lime blossom, apricot preserve, and chamomile tea on the nose followed by bright citrus flavors on the palate. The finish is long and refreshing. This wine was produced from 100% Cabernet Franc and whole cluster pressed to produce a refreshing unique white wine.
Mira Rosé of Pinot Noir 2019 – A dry rose with a brilliant rose gold color, the subtle bouquet invites with hints of fresh roses, young peach and papaya. In the mouth the delicateness of its flavors reveal its Pinot Noir origin. Initial hints of apple and pear segue to red tea and a lengthy, bright finish. Enjoy upon release or savor in its gained complexity as it ages.
Mira Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard 2017 – A world class chardonnay from the venerable Hyde Vineyard in Carneros, this wine presents Golden apple, crème brulée, apricot, chai-spice, white peach and Bosc pear on the nose. On the palate, the wine’s acidity and honeycomb flavors meld into a delicate and long mineral tinged with chamomile finish.