Report from Eric Glomski

I called Eric, the Winemaker at David Bruce, on his cell phone this afternoon. He was cruising around Paso Robles, checking up on their Central Coast grapes. Last week, he went up to the Russian River to do his rounds.

Due to the cool spring, he is predicting a late harvest, perhaps a month later than last year, especially in cool areas like Santa Cruz mountains.

His synopsis of this year's harvest is: tons of great fruit, dropping prices, and many excellent vineyards needing buyers. With even more fruit coming online this year, lots of fruit will be sold on the spot market at low, low prices.

Regarding Zinfandel, he recommended contracting a quality vineyard, like Teldeschi, and then experimenting with other fruit. It provides blending options. He mentioned a vineyard near Soledad with some great cooler climate Zinfanel-- peppery with some spice for very competive prices. He mentioned a few vineyards, like Lakeview Vineyard, in Paso Robles area has some great vineyards with big, rich flavors.

Regarding Pinot Noir, he advised contracting Russian River fruit. It is highly sought after and has some excellent vineyards.

With regards to Syrah, he mentioned that the Kruse is allocated. He will keep me posted on any fruit sources he comes across.

He recommended to establish contracts for sought out grapes but also waiting for the spot at the end of harvest to blend and experiment with.

Related Links:
· Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association: Classifieds
· Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association: Winery Map