Bud break at the Toucan Wines Vineyard

The first leaf of the vintage has popped our swelling buds. As always, it's the 86 east facing Zinfandel vines sloped toward our water tanks that break bud first. This section is quickly followed by vines on top of the hill where thinner soils make growing a challenge, and next by the Petite Sirah.

Happy Spring

Warm weather, still hoping for rain

We've had a warm couple of days, and I'm still hoping for rain this weekend - but the chance has been reduced to 40%. It's really a beautiful time of year with the green grassy hills and the tree leafing out. When you come to the central coast, please stop into Lund's on Saturday to taste our wines.

If you enjoy Facebook, please join us - our group is Toucan Wines and here you'll find updates, events and even special offers.

In the Vineyard...

Waiting for bud-break, but we're in no hurry! The vineyard is pruned, cuttings removed, we mowed and weed-whacked, now it's time to focus on other projects. In 2008 bud-break was on 3/14 and in 2007 bud-break was on 3/25, I'd prefer later to avoid frost damage -- just last night we suffered from a heavy frost and that's not good for young growth.

Kathy's Pick

KATHY'S PICK - March 5, 2009

Toucan Wines 2006 Zinfandel Arroyo Grande Valley

This darkly-hued wine offers intense notes of blackberries, boysenberries, and black cherries that are rich and ripe, almost jammy notes but kept in balance by its natural acidity. Although it’s drinkable now, you’ll be rewarded by cellaring it three to six years. A good choice for barbecued ribs or steaks, meat, and cheese pizza, or penne pasta with sausage and mushrooms. Only $34 at Lund’s in Arroyo Grande or online at toucanwines.com. Read the New Times San Luis Obispo - http://www.newtimesslo.com/food-wine/