Harvest season marks a pivotal moment for any winery. After months of tending vineyards and monitoring grape development, the arrival of harvest brings a mix of excitement and pressure. This year, Six Cloves has officially begun its 10th vintage, starting with the Linda Vista Chardonnay. The journey to this point has been full of unexpected challenges and rewarding moments, reflecting the realities of winemaking in Northern California today.

Starting Vintage 2026 with Linda Vista Chardonnay

The 2026 vintage at Six Cloves began almost immediately after a trip to Japan, with the return of the Linda Vista Chardonnay to the cellar after a one-year break. This grape variety is a cornerstone for Six Cloves, known for its delicate flavors and balanced acidity.

This year, the vineyard faced unusually low yields. While the expectation was around 2 tons of fruit, the final harvest yielded only 1.5 tons. Although smaller than hoped, the grapes arrived in excellent condition, showing strong character and potential for quality wine.

We used a gentle whole-cluster pressing method for the Chardonnay. This approach helps preserve the fruit’s natural acidity and flavors. Some botrytis was present in the vineyard, a type of fungus that can affect grapes, but it was minimal and manageable and added complexity. Careful handling during fermentation ensures the juice maintains its integrity.

Currently, the Chardonnay juice is resting in barrels, with native fermentation just beginning. Watching this natural process unfold is a rewarding experience after months of vineyard monitoring and decision-making.

The Impact of Weather and Yields on Harvest

Northern California’s 2026 growing season has been marked by unusual weather patterns affecting yields across many vineyards. Drought conditions and heat spikes have stressed vines, reducing the quantity of fruit but often concentrating flavors.

For Six Cloves, this meant adjusting expectations and focusing on quality more than ever. The smaller harvest from Linda Vista Chardonnay is a clear example. While less fruit arrived, the grapes showed excellent ripeness and complexity.

This situation highlights the importance of flexibility and close observation during the growing season. Vineyard teams must balance timing, chemistry, and taste to decide the optimal moment to pick.

A Final Vintage from Alder Springs Vineyard

Alongside the Linda Vista harvest, a trip to Alder Springs vineyard provided a chance to assess another important source of fruit. Unlike many California regions experiencing an early harvest, Alder Springs progressed at a more typical pace, about two weeks ahead of usual.

The vineyard team’s careful work has kept the fruit healthy and vibrant as it approaches the final stages of ripening. This 33rd and final vintage carries extra significance because it will be the last time Six Cloves works with Alder Springs fruit.

Over the years, Alder Springs has contributed to some of the winery’s most special wines. Ending this chapter brings a mix of nostalgia and hope for what lies ahead.

Looking Ahead to Vintage No. 10

Starting the 10th vintage is a milestone that reflects years of dedication and growth. Despite the hurdles, the excitement of having fresh juice in the cellar is unmatched. Each vintage tells a story shaped by nature, human effort, and a bit of luck.

As fermentation progresses, I look forward to crafting wines that express the unique qualities of this season. The smaller yields may mean limited quantities, but the focus remains on creating memorable wines that reflect the vineyard’s terroir.

Final Thoughts on the 2026 Harvest Kick-Off

The beginning of harvest season at Six Cloves shows how winemaking blends science, art, and patience. From the careful picking of Linda Vista Chardonnay to the emotional farewell to Alder Springs fruit, this vintage captures the essence of working with the land.

For wine lovers and enthusiasts, these stories behind the bottle add depth to the tasting experience. Following the journey from vineyard to cellar reveals the care and challenges involved in every sip.

As the 2026 vintage unfolds, I invite you to stay connected and share in the excitement of what promises to be a memorable year for Six Cloves!

If you want to learn more about the winemaking process or follow updates throughout the season, keep an eye on our newsletters, blog, and Instagram. The story of this vintage is just beginning!