June 30, 2009
Vineyard Update
Lots of action out in the vineyard lately. Seve and the guys have gone through the Petit Verdot and the Cabernet Franc and pulled laterals and cleaned out the fruiting zone. Ryan has been working on our first round of hedging, should finish up the Cab Franc tomorrow. He also hit the new plantings with a dose of Rely herbicide a couple weeks back to keep the weeds down. With all the rain we've had this season, the vigor has been off the charts. Our rows are nine feet apart and the vines are already up over the top catch wire and meeting each other in the middle of the rows!
The new planting is looking awesome, with about 95% of the new stock well up out of the grow tubes. Guess all the rain has been useful for them.
Keeping a sharp eye out for the Japanese beetles, which usually begin to make their unwelcome appearance about this time of year.
Had a few equipment mishaps as well lately, nothing new I suppose. Busted the drive shaft to the bushhawg to the tune of $160 for that new part. Bent the step to the tractor cab when I ran over a stump hidden in the tall grass, but was able to "convince" it back into shape with a sledgehammer. Now have a busted mower deck pulley on the riding mower, need a part for that. Tip guard on the chainsaw won't stay in place and we keep dulling chains. Whatever...
Posted by Stephen at 6:35 PM
June 28, 2009
Nursery Painting
OK I usually try not to put our personal family stuff out on the vineyard blog, but this is one of those exceptions. We are fortunate to have an amazing reknowned folk artisan in the family, Debbie Hartwick of Heartwells Designs. Debbie offered to help us paint the nursery, so we jumped at the opportunity! We had decided on a cute medieval theme for little Ronan Tylor, and basically told Debbie we wanted a "cute castle with a dragon somewhere" and she just ran with it. Done in a folk art Americana style, we are absolutely floored by the result. Can't wait to have our little man move in!!!
Posted by Stephen at 12:52 PM
June 21, 2009
Eighth Spray
Very happy with the results of the Ridomil Gold on that downy mildew - haven't seen anything additional since then even with prime conditions. Hitting it again with the Ridomil!
Ridomil Gold - 4 lb per acre
Microthiol Disperss - 4 lb per acre
Remainder of the BM86
Posted by Stephen at 6:33 PM
June 16, 2009
Wonderful Email
This email put such a big smile on our faces that we thought we would share it with you - received this after the last newsletter went out:
Dear Stephen and Shannon,
Thank you for the emails you are sending to keep us apprised of the events at the vineyard and the development of your business/family. I watched every episode of Dream House and happily followed the realization of your dream. It was so enjoyable to watch the way you both pulled together during such an exciting/stressful situation. During previous installments of Dream House, I have been frustrated sometimes at the events that unfolded and how husbands/wives or friends treated each other during the construction. Having gone through a home renovation myself, I realize that is pretty much the norm, but it is not pleasant to watch on TV! Your family was a joy to watch and an inspiration/testimony to hard work and determination. I was in awe of both of you most of the time for juggling so many roles and not letting it get the best of you.
My husband and I are not wine experts by any means, and are just getting our feet wet in finding what we like. I wish your establishment was closer, so we could come enjoy all it has to offer! One day, however, we intend to include your vineyard on a trip "down south". Until then, I am thrilled to hear of your upcoming addition to your family. Hope the delivery goes well and all are healthy. What a great name you chose!
Best wishes for continued success in your business, but most of all in your lives.
Sincerely,
[[Your Friend]]
Hackettstown, NJ
Posted by Stephen at 8:44 AM
June 9, 2009
Anniversary Event Announced
To celebrate our one-year anniversary, we are pleased to announce the world's first wine & music pairing event
The Notaviva Experience
Saturday - June 27, 2009
7 pm - 10 pm
Admission $25 per person - Reservations Required
For the first time, a select group of wine and music enthusiasts can participate in a live experiment based on experiential sensory pairings. The event has been designed to ensure an unbiased forum for the consideration of the complex ways in which auditory stimuli can influence the perception of wines. The event shall proceed as follows:
- Five wines will be individually presented (4 oz blind tasting)
- Each wine will be accompanied by ten 1-minute clips of music from widely varying genres with a 10-second silent pause between clips
- Tasters will have evaluation materials available to rate each clip according to the current wine being tasted
- Evaluation materials will be collected at the end of the evening and loaded into a research database for graphical presentation on the Web
7:00 pm - Winemaker welcome, experiment overview and tasting tips
7:20 pm - Wine 1 presented
7:40 pm - Wine 2 presented
8:00 pm - Wine 3 presented
8:20 pm - Wine 4 presented
8:40 pm - Wine 5 presented
9:00 pm - Winemaker wrap-up, open discussion and group social
Hors d'oeuvres, gourmet cheeses, fresh breads and desserts will be served.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to be a part of wine history!
Seating is limited - reserve your spot online today!!!
Posted by Stephen at 8:22 AM
June 8, 2009
Seventh Spray
Put down the seventh spray of the season. Started to see a few spots of downy mildew here and there (one to two leaves per vine) so upped the intensity by going with the Ridomil Gold which is a systemic. Should be in good shape.
Ridomil Gold - 2.5 lb per acre
Manzate Pro Stick - 1 lb per acre
Nova - 3 oz per acre
BM86
Posted by Stephen at 6:28 PM
Lancaster Online News Clip
Got a tiny mention in a Lancaster Online article, but thought anyone who's been in our tasting room would find it interesting to learn more about Lancaster County Timber Frames - check out the article here.
Posted by Stephen at 1:23 PM
June 1, 2009
Sixth Spray
Applied the sixth spray of the season already, this upcoming rain is making me nervous/annoyed because we're at a critical stage right around bloom. Amping up the juice a little bit, going with the Nova for the powdery mildew this time instead of the Microthiol Disperss because it's a systemic and won't have to worry about it washing off. But it sure ain't cheap!
Nova - 3 oz per acre
Manzate ProStick - 4 lb per acre
Posted by Stephen at 9:46 PM
May 28, 2009
Fifth Spray
Applied the fifth spray of the season today:
Microthiol Disperss - 4 lb per acre
Manzate ProStick - 4 lb per acre
Posted by Stephen at 9:45 PM
May 19, 2009
Redskinettes Bios
Thought you all might be interested in reading the bios of Heather and Talmesha, the two Redskinettes who will be visiting us this Saturday from 4 - 6.
| Read Heather's bio here | Read Talmesha's bio here |
 |  |
Posted by Stephen at 8:49 PM
May 17, 2009
Fourth Spray
Applied the fourth spray of the season today:
Microthiol Disperss - 4 lb per acre
Manzate ProStick - 4 lb per acre
Posted by Stephen at 9:44 PM
May 16, 2009
New Tasting Room Milestone
Wow, what a HUGE day in the tasting room. We passed another milestone today, crossing the 200+ tastings in a single day mark. Quickbooks shows 204, but safe to say there might be a dozen or so additional people from the groups who "got lost in the shuffle" - also set our single day group record with 12! By way of comparison, this same weekend in 2008 we did 34 tastings.
Fantastic people visiting today, several who had seen the HGTV show and were coming in to see the finished product, and lots of return visitors who we met last year and are coming back. Thanks to our great customers - your warm wishes and awesome compliments are what keep us going.
Great job by our team - thanks to Andrea, Brittany, Ryan & Ariel for holding it all together, and to Shannon for taking on several of the groups with just under two months to go until the baby is due. Also thanks to Grammy for taking the boys!
Posted by Stephen at 8:00 PM
May 14, 2009
Bottling Video Posted
I put up a quick vodcast on our bottling day over at North Gate Vineyard. You can check out the video here on YouTube.
Posted by Stephen at 2:41 PM
Photo Gallery Catchup
Had the chance to catch up on some more of my photo galleries. Here are several from last fall - enjoy!
Posted by Stephen at 2:34 PM
May 7, 2009
Third Spray
Applied the third spray this afternoon, still using minimal nozzles. Vineyard is disease-free and growth looks great.
Microthiol Disperss - 3 lb per acre
Manzate ProStick - 1.75 lb per acre
Posted by Stephen at 10:26 AM
May 2, 2009
Second Spray
Applied the second spray (first fungicide application) this evening. Still using minimal nozzles.
Microthiol Disperss - 3 lb per acre
Prophyt - 2 pints per acre
Posted by Stephen at 10:22 AM
April 25, 2009
First Spray
Saw a few indications of grape flea beetle out in the vineyard. Jumped right on that one, given how much damage they can actually do. You can read more about them here.
Carbaryl 4L 2.5 qt per 65 gallons, sprayer limited to one top nozzle and two bottom nozzles
Posted by Stephen at 8:16 PM
April 22, 2009
Mother's Day Event Announced
Want to treat mom right? How about some pampering at Notaviva Vineyards? We are pleased to announce we'll be joined Sunday, May 10 by Indulge Mobile Spa for the day and are offering various packages of treatments, wine, chocolate and flowers. And no, the tasting room will NOT smell like harsh chemicals!!!
Call Shannon at (540) 668-6756 for reservations.
Information
All nail treatments performed by Indulge Mobile Spa are done using Priti non-toxic 100% soy based nail polish, an organic soy-based nail polish remover, organic cotton balls, biodegradable slippers/toe separators, an all natural cuticle oil, organic scrubs, and organic moisturizers.
Every pedicure pumice stone and nail file are used one time and are offered to the guest for home usage or disposal by one of our licensed nail technicians. Cleanliness is our top priority.
Packages
Relaxing Chair Massage - $40
Enjoy your special day relaxing with a chair massage, a glass of wine, chocolate, & flowers!
Vincero Viognier Wine Manicure - $40
Enjoy your special day relaxing with a "Vincero" Viogner wine manicure, a glass of wine, chocolate, & flowers!
The Simply Relaxing Mother's Day Spa Package - $70
Enjoy your special day relaxing with a "Vincero" Viogner wine manicure, chair massage, a glass of wine, chocolate, & flowers!
Organic Nubian Milk Chocolate & "Vincero" Viognier Wine Pedicure & Manicure - $100
Tantalize your senses, hands, and feet with the ecstasy of our chocolate scrub followed by a dip in "Vincero" Viognier wine. The aroma of pure chocolate liqueur and vanilla infusion will serve as a chocolate lovers delight...but without the guilt! Served with a glass of wine, chocolate, & flowers!
Posted by Stephen at 7:18 PM
April 13, 2009
New Wines Released
We're pleased to announce we've released two new wines in addition to the recently released Vincero Viognier. New to the tasting room are:
"Calor" White Table Wine
A blend of 45% stainless-steel fermented Chardonnay, 45% stainless-steel fermented Sauvignon Blanc, and 10% barrel fermented Pinot Gris with 1% residual sugar.
Like a summer night on South Beach, Calor evokes feelings of good times and good friends. Close your eyes, inhale the ocean breeze, feel the rhythm of the latin jazz, then enjoy a glass of Calor.
Best paired with hot sax.
"Celtico" Chambourcin
85% Chambourcin, 10% Tannat and 5% Petit Verdot, dry red wine
Hard to define, yet mysteriously familiar, our Celtico Chambourcin is blended with Tannat in a fusion of new and old. Mystical and uninhibited like the culture it honors, its dauntless spirit endures. Slainte Mhath!
Best paired with new age Celtic.
All wines are viewable here:
http://www.notavivavineyards.com/ourwines/index.shtml
Posted by Stephen at 6:14 PM
April 8, 2009
Vineyard Update
Over the past couple weeks Seve and the guys have finished up the final pruning. Ryan had done about 2/3 of the rough pruning so it really allowed the other team to blaze through pretty quickly. Still have to pull out all the cuttings, but will get to that next week.
This morning I'm heading out to begin applying herbicide around the deer fence perimeter, along the existing rows, as well as put down the first application on the recently subsoiled rows in preparation for our next planting in a few weeks. Game on!
Posted by Stephen at 6:56 AM
New Press Page Launched
Since we've had so much great press exposure over the past several months we decided to put together a new page on our site collating all the articles. It's in the News section and is called "Press" - you can check it out here.
Posted by Stephen at 6:54 AM
April 7, 2009
Loudoun Extra
Shannon and I are featured in this week's Washington Post "Loudoun Extra" section. We did a quick interview via email and they came out to snap a few pics. Thanks to everyone at Loudoun Extra for your continued interest and support!
Posted by Stephen at 11:07 AM
Virginia Wine Featured on CNN
Nice feature on the Virginia wine industry!
Posted by Stephen at 9:24 AM
March 31, 2009
Plant a Row
Just came across a great article in the Leesburg Today about the local chapter of the Plant-a-Row organization. In a nutshell it coordinates farmers to donate produce to help feed those less fortunate. We signed up right away and hope to contribute throughout the summer and fall from now on. Remember now matter how crappy things have gotten lately with the economy there are always those way worse off!
Leesburg Today Article
http://www.leesburg2day.com/articles/2009/03/30/news/fp234plantarow033009.txt
Organization Web Site
http://www.vpclc.com/par.aspx
Posted by Stephen at 7:30 AM
March 30, 2009
Blog Catchup - New Photo Galleries
If you've been following this blog for any length of time you've by now figured out I'm devoted to keeping it up to date, no matter how far behind I get. I've just spent several hours building some new photo galleries from spring 2008 and have uploaded them into the appropriate blog entries. Will be posting several more over the next few days - stay tuned!!!
Enjoy!!!
Posted by Stephen at 8:36 AM
March 18, 2009
Wine Compass Blog
We received a great mention on the Wine Compass Blog about our live music capabilities - read the entry here.
Posted by Stephen at 12:31 PM
March 8, 2009
2008 Viognier in the Bottle
We are pleased to announce our 2008 Viognier has been successfully bottled! Many thanks to our winemakers Mark and Vicki Fedor, who have really created an amazing wine.
And the name...? We had a few guesses on our Facebook page as well as through email, and had a couple people correctly guess the name - Vincerò.
So what does that mean? Vincerò is the last line of the lyric to the Puccini Opera "Turandot" - learn more about Turandot here and read the lyrics here.
For us, Vincerò symbolizes the completion of our first step in what will hopefully be a long and amazing journey through the wine, music and hospitality industries. Although we still have a LONG way to go there is an inner peace knowing what has already been achieved. In searching for just the right word to convey our feelings at this stage, I spent hours and hours poring over music dictionaries, only to find the answer has been with us from the start. For those who have spent some time on our Web site, you may recall that my description of "what is Notaviva?" has always included a reference to Nessun Dorma, and Pavarotti's interpretation of that piece. Anyone who has ever seen it will never forget "the note" at the end of the song. And the lyric when he hits that note?
Vincerò.
Believe in yourselves, and enjoy.
Posted by Stephen at 6:31 PM
February 27, 2009
2008 Viognier Almost Here...
We are eagerly anticipating our Monday bottling of the newly-renamed 2008 Viognier. Produced by the talented husband and wife team of Mark and Vicki Fedor, founders of North Gate Vineyards the 2008 is showing a remarkable tropical fruit bouquet, wonderful mouthfeel and bright acidity.
Although we're not letting the cat out of the bag yet as to the new name, we do want to drop everyone a hint. It is in the lyric below - tune in to our Facebook page and write on our wall if you want to offer a guess! The label will be posted here Monday night so check back to see if you got it right!
ITALIAN LYRIC:
Nessun dorma! Nessun dorma!
Tu pure, o, Principessa,
nella tua fredda stanza,
guardi le stelle
che tremano d'amore
e di speranza.
Ma il mio mistero e chiuso in me,
il nome mio nessun saprá!
No, no, sulla tua bocca lo diró
quando la luce splenderá!
Ed il mio bacio sciogliera il silenzio
che ti fa mia!
(Il nome suo nessun saprá!...
e noi dovrem, ahimé, morir!)
Dilegua, o notte!
Tramontate, stelle!
Tramontate, stelle!
All'alba vinceró!
vinceró, vinceró!
ENGLISH TRANSLATION :
No-one sleeps....no-one sleeps,
Even you, O Princess,
in your cold room,
Watch the stars
which tremble with love
and hope!
But my secret is locked within me,
no-one shall know my name!
No, no, I shall say it on your mouth
when the light breaks!
And my kiss will break the silence
that makes you mine!
(No-one shall know his name,
and we, alas, shall die!)
Vanish, o night!
Set, ye stars!
At dawn I shall win!
Posted by Stephen at 9:10 PM
February 24, 2009
RSVP
Today Shannon and I participated in the "Responsible Sellers and Servers: Virginia's Program" seminar hosted by the Virginia ABC. It was an eye-opening learning experience, as we covered many topics such as various laws, proper ID techniques, handling intoxicated guests and other valuable information. We highly recommend this program for anyone working in an industry where alcohol is served. You're doing yourself and your patrons a great service by having the knowledge.
Here's the link:
http://www.abc.state.va.us/Education/rsvp/RSVP.html
Posted by Stephen at 9:01 PM
Wine Cruise Announced
We are pleaseed to announce our participation in a January 2010 wine cruise, from Port of Baltimore to the Bahamas!
Our cruise includes all of the standard Carnival Cruise amenities: all you can eat buffets, restaurant dining, room service, entertainment and Broadway style shows, pools, sun and fun, and so much more. Get away from the cold this winter!
- 7 Night Bahamas Cruise onboard the Carnival Pride (January 17th to 24th, 2010).
- Leaving from the Port of Baltimore (no need to buy air!!!).
- Port calls include Freeport, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; and Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Download the information sheet with complete details!
Learn more about the Carnival Pride cruise ship!
Posted by Stephen at 8:11 AM
February 20, 2009
Anyone who wants to follow us on Twitter can find us here:
Posted by Stephen at 2:19 PM
February 18, 2009
Greener Loudoun Blog
Came across this great blog focused on green issues in Loudoun and abroad. Check it out:
http://greenerloudoun.wordpress.com/
Also recently came across this site:
Posted by Stephen at 9:38 AM
February 14, 2009
Sitting In With The Band...
Today our musical guests Emma and Rob Bailey were kind enough to allow a "guest artist" to sit in with them...
Posted by Stephen at 3:46 PM
February 12, 2009
Cantabile Wins Silver
We're pleased to announce that our 2007 "Cantabile" Cabernet Franc has won a silver medal in the Virginia Governor's Cup! Our second contest entry and our second award, we think the Cab has really developed since bottling last June and consistently receives great comments from visitors to the tasting room. Special thanks of course goes to our winemaker Doug Fabbioli, whose own reserve Cab Franc took home a gold medal and is in the running for the Governor's Cup.
Posted by Stephen at 8:08 AM
February 11, 2009
Nice Review
As I mentioned in my last entry, I recently traveled to NYC to promote D.C. chefs and Loudoun wines. Looks like the trip was worth the time and effort!
"Throughout the evening, wine from several D.C.-area wineries proved the destination's strength as a local pick for oenophiles. Particularly memorable were the Cabernet Franc from Notaviva Vineyards, the Locksley Reserve from Chrysalis Vineyards and the Hope's Legacy Raspberry Wine from Doukenie Winery (terrific with dessert). "
Posted by Stephen at 7:47 AM
February 10, 2009
Travel Agent Central
Our "Cantabile" Cabernet Franc received a great mention in the TAC article "Tasting D.C." - read the article here.
Posted by Stephen at 12:24 PM
February 6, 2009
Marketing / Legislative Road Trips
Been a busy week for road trips! On Tuesday and Wednesday I was up in New York City for a couple marketing / press events with Destination DC. Tuesday I took the train in from Brunswick to Union Station, then Amtrak up to Penn Station. Got a hotel in SoHo near the events.
The Tuesday night gig was a dinner prepared by some of DC's best chefs, and some of the courses were paired with a Loudoun wine while others were available before and after. Our "Cantabile" Cabernet Franc was available for the pre-dinner reception as guests were coming in. Guests ranged from all facets of the food and wine media industries - writers, critics, etc. The dinner was held at Astor Center.
The Wednesday lunch was a reception with tourism industry people as well as with additional writers. I sat at a table with tourism emmisaries from Hong Kong and Shanghai, as well as the New York correspondent for the London Times. All were very receptive to the happenings here in Loudoun, but most people are still like "Virginia wine? Huh?" So that's why I'm out spreading the word!
Then on Thursday I got up at 4 AM to head down to Richmond to do some lobbying for the General Assembly. A bunch of winery owners (well not a bunch but a dedicated few...) met at the Virginia Marketing Board office where we were greeted by the Secretary of Agriculture who gave us a guick primer on consistent messaging. Then we met with David King of King Family Vineyards who has been leading the legislative charge for many years, who then introduced Matt Conrad, our new dedicated Virginia wine industry lobbyist. It was great to meet Matt in person after all the newsletters, and also great to spend time with Annette, Amy, and Ann who always are doing such a great job marketing our industry.
Then it was showtime - we each grabbed a bag of wine and headed over to the legislator's offices. Each of us had six bottles labeled for six different Senators or Delegates. Then the gig was to head to each office, approach the secretary and attempt to meet with the legislator. I had six different Senators, of which I saw three, then two legislative assistants, and one secretary. All were so generous with their time and attention, and I got the impression that each were pleased we were taking the time to visit personally and thank them for the two bills that were just passed in our favor.
All in all it has been a really busy week, as of course I have multiple Mesh Multimedia jobs happening so I had a lot of designing to do on the train and in the hotel room. But everything was worth it, and I'm much better for the experience!
Posted by Stephen at 5:37 PM
January 21, 2009
Say No to the Powerline
I am stating flatly for the public record that we are 100% absolutely opposed to the proposed powerline, which would cut through our scenic Between the Hills valley. We will do everything in our power to fight this, and encourage all who read this blog and support the Loudoun wine industry to follow suit. Here are some links to various articles and maps.
SAY NO TO THE POWERLINE.
Map of Proposed Route
(you can see Sagle Road just under the "116" on Map 1)
See the map
Leesburg Today article
http://leesburgtoday.com/articles/2009/01/08/news/fp314lvillemeeting010809.txt
Posted by Stephen at 11:26 PM
January 14, 2009
Valentine's Day Dinner Announced!
Enjoy an evening of delicious food, delightful wines, and live jazz in our one-of-a-kind tasting room!
$160 per couple
6:30 - 10:00 PM
6:30 - Winemaker's welcome
7:00 - Seth Fromal Jazz Trio
7:30 - Dinner
9:00 - Live music ends / coffee served
10:00 - Event ends
Space is limited, so sign up in our online store today!
MENU
- One (1) bottle Notaviva Vineyards wine of your choice
- Cheese board with fruit and breads
- Portabella mushroom ravioli in pesto cream
- Mixed greens with red pear, fresh parmesan, walnuts in white balsamic vinaigrette
- Medallions of beef tenderloin in Cabernet sauce and sautéed forest mushrooms (served with bleu cheese scalloped potatoes)
- Breads
- Hazelnut mocha torte
- Coffee
PLEASE NOTE - We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover (no AMEX). You may notice an error during checkout regarding a shipping charge - this is a shopping cart error and you will NOT be charged $14.50 for shipping and handling - prices are as listed above.
Due to catering requirements, all sales are final. However, in the event of inclement weather the event will be rescheduled.
Posted by Stephen at 10:13 PM
January 4, 2009
Vineyard Wedding Gifts
So at long last I've done it! I've finally updated our "Meet the Crew" page with the names of the family and friends who contributed nursery stock for our wedding registry. For those of you who aren't aware, when Shannon and I wed in June 2004 we provided family and friends the option of downloading a form whereby they could give money towards our first planting in 2005. Nearly half an acre of nursery stock came from these gifts, and our promise was to post those names on the Web site as well as on a plaque in the tasting room. So over the past few weeks as I've been getting caught up on organization I finally "unearthed" some boxes from the wedding and found the donation sheets. The list is posted on the page below, please let us know right away if you or someone you know is missing before we create the final plaque this spring!!!
http://www.notavivavineyards.com/backstage/meetthecrew.shtml
Posted by Stephen at 7:32 PM
