Almost there

 

Veraison is progressing very quickly now. We may be harvesting in the next few days. The kite is flying nicely and seems to be doing its job. Let's hope that between the cats, the donkeys and the kite, the birds will be kept away. 

The making of wine in Ireland's history

As I wait for the grapevines to become dormant in this very mild autumn, I ponder the next steps in our venture. We only had one cluster of grapes this year on the Rondo variety; they disappeared before we could taste them. I have been staking and tying the vines with old nylon stockings which are very gentle on the vines. I will prune judiciously for the first time when they lose their leaves. Meanwhile, I continue with my research.