Hidden Acres was probably planted in 1987 or 1988 by Dr. Townsend and his wife. I hope to get an exact season in the near future. This does seem to be a reasonable timeframe as the vineyard produced multiple vintages and three years are needed to begin producing grapes in any quantity.
Varieties planted included Zinfandel, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay. Table grapes are also planted but we’re interested in the wine so this may be the last time they are mentioned. From my hastily written notes while on the phone with the Townsends the rows starting from the tennis court side are:
- Half row table grapes including Thompson (Hey look… already mentioned them again)
- Two rows Zinfandel
- The final row is Chenin Blanc
- A row somewhere in between is Chardonnay
- The rest of the rows are a mix of Chenin Blanc and Zinfandel
I’m sure we’ll be able to figure out what’s what as the grapes enter varaison. I’d almost bet there will be a schematic posted showing the the layout, variety and possibly production of each vine. Sometimes a hobby can be taken to far. (nah)
On average a ton of grapes were harvested per year. Netting was put over the vines early in September as the brix came up to 19. This is apparently the point where the grapes become very attractive to birds. There is no deer fencing leading me to think that they weren’t a major threat to the vines (and grapes).
There were several vintages before the couple moved out of state in 1992. At least one vintage took a medal in a local competition. The final crush involved several couples competing in an old fashioned stomp with the victor taking home a Hidden Acres t-shirt.
I’ll be back with more history and news as it becomes available.
