From the Winemaker’s Patio: Harvest 2024
Harvest 2024 in Napa Valley is an exciting time when the energy in the vineyards is palpable, and the winemaking process comes to life. We spoke with ONEHOPE’s Winemaker, Isadora Frias, to dive into the heart of this season. In this Q&A, Isadora shares her journey from engineering to winemaking, her daily routines during the busy harvest period, and insights into vineyard practices and grape harvesting techniques. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or curious about how your favorite wines come to be, discover what makes the Napa Valley harvest special and which seasonal wines you should enjoy right now.
Harvest is buzzing here in Napa! The Sauvignon Blanc has wrapped up fermentation, and our Rosé is enjoying a slow, cold ferment—just how we like it. Pinot Noir is being pressed, and Cabernet grapes are being picked. Even with the wild swings between hot days and cool nights, everything’s falling into place perfectly!
From Engineering to Winemaking: Isadora Frias’ Journey
Dan Gora: Why did you become a winemaker?
Isadora Frias: By accident! I was initially studying engineering and hadn’t worked in wine before. During a school strike, I joined a harvest in the Barossa Valley, Australia, where a friend had a great experience. I loved it—it was my first hands-on winemaking experience, working six days a week for two months. After that, I traveled to various wine regions worldwide, participating in multiple harvests each year. Eventually, I pursued my master’s degree in Viticulture & Enology at UC Davis and settled in California. My journey into the Napa Valley wine industry is a testament to following unexpected paths and seizing opportunities.
The Energy of Harvest Season
Dan: What makes the harvest season so special?
Isadora: Harvest season in Napa Valley is magical. There’s a unique energy that fills the vineyards and wineries. I love the early morning vineyard visits, tasting the grapes, and envisioning what the wine will become. The harvest results from years of careful vineyard management and grape selection. On harvest day, all the hard work comes together as we bring the fruit to the winery and taste the fresh juice. This is not just about the current season; it’s the culmination of vineyard care from up to two years prior, which impacts the wine’s quality in the bottle.
A Day in the Life of a Winemaker During Harvest
Dan: Can you describe a typical “day in the life” of a winemaker during harvest?
Isadora: Every day is different, but it always starts with coffee! Mornings involve vineyard visits and checking grape sugar levels to decide the optimal picking time. If it’s a picking day, I head to the winery to oversee sorting, destemming, and starting the fermentation process. Lunchtime offers a chance to connect with the team, recharging for the afternoon. We spend the afternoons tasting fermentations, managing temperatures, and adding yeast and nutrients. We often do “pumpovers” to enhance the wine’s tannins and color by circulating juice over the grape skins. The day ends with lab work, cellar management, and planning for the next pick. After a day of tasting wine, a cold beer is the perfect way to unwind!
Wines of the Season: Field to Table Red Blend, Rosé, and Fumé Blanc
Dan: What’s your favorite “wine of the season” right now?
Isadora: I love our NEW Field to Table Red Blend, Rosé, and Fumé Blanc. Our Field to Table Red Blend has bold notes of dark cherry balanced with smooth oak and a hint of exotic spices. Subtle undertones of leather and dried rose petals offer a sophisticated finish. California Vintner Rosé is perfect for the hot late summer and early fall days. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and reflects what the season offers. Fumé Blanc is another classic I always have on hand—it’s versatile and delicious year-round. These wines capture the season’s essence and are perfect for enjoying Napa Valley’s warm weather.
Supporting Causes Close to Our Hearts
Dan: What is a cause you are most passionate about supporting?
Isadora: I have two. First, anything that helps research and the fight against cancer. I lost my dad to cancer when I was really young. It was seven months from the time he got diagnosed to the time he passed away. I have many family members and friends that have suffered, so for me, that’s one cause that I really want to move the needle on helping find the cure. Second, anything related to water. I think water is my element. If I’m not at the winery, you can usually find me in an ocean or a pool. I’m really proud that ONEHOPE has supported that specific cause. We are celebrating a significant milestone at this year’s Harvest Party. Keep your eyes and ears open in the coming weeks for a special announcement from our founders.
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