Vintage Notes
Due to the relatively mild winter leading up to the start of the 2023 growing season. This vintage saw unseasonably early budbreak. The growing season started two weeks early in our vineyards. This led to increased chance of ripening, however it opened up the possibilty of frost damage. While frost’s hit, the vineyard site was well protected against damage. The remaining fruit saw temperatures in line with the ten year average. A dry September and cooler nights led to ripe wines with a bright acidity and intense fruit flavors.
Vineyard & Soil
Sawmill Creek is one of the iconic vineyards of the Finger Lakes. This Farm was planted in 1852 and has been farmed for 7 Generations by the Hazlitt family. Located right across the street from our tasting room, this 70 acre site highlights the terroir of the finger lakes. The vineyard rocky shale and limestone soils slope towards the lake. The grapes have full exposure to the warm afternoon sun, leading to increased ripeness and varietal typicity. This Vineyard was planted in 1985 making it the oldest block that Hector Wine Company produces. This vineyard is planted 200 feet away from Seneca Lake. This proximity to the lake creates a cooler mesoclimate in the summer, and lengthens the growing season of this early ripening variety. Cooler evening temperatures provides crisp acidity and the longer growing season provides great mouthfeel and texture in the finished wine.
