Late summer at Estate 8 is a season of transition. The vineyard shifts toward harvest, the culinary garden reaches its peak, and warm mornings invite us outside. From the first sauvignon blanc pick of the year to what is growing in the garden, here is a glimpse at life on the property as summer begins to give way to harvest.
Harvest Begins in the Vineyard
Harvest arrived early this year, beginning at 4:30 AM on Wednesday, August 5th, before sunrise in our estate sauvignon blanc vineyard. In the quiet of the early morning, the first fruit of the season came off the vines, destined for our Estate Fumé Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc wines. It marks an exciting shift on property, as the long days of summer begin to give way to the energy and rhythm of harvest.
From the Culinary Garden to the Table
Late summer has the culinary garden at its peak, with carrots, tomatoes, lettuces, basil, and fresh herbs ready to make their way into the kitchen. Much of what we grow inspires the seasonal menu for Wine & Bites, our signature four-course wine tasting experience. It creates a natural connection between the garden, the kitchen, and the wines in each pairing, with the menu evolving alongside what the season gives us.
Summer Mornings at the Farmhouse
Warm summer mornings at the Farmhouse are best spent outside, and this season we welcomed Lululemon to Estate 8 for a morning of yoga overlooking the vineyard. With the vines as the backdrop and the property waking up around us, it was a chance to move, connect, and enjoy one of our favorite times of day in Napa Valley.
Looking Toward Harvest
There is something special about these final weeks of summer at Estate 8. The garden is full, harvest is underway, and the property is beginning its transition into one of the most exciting seasons of the year. Summer may be winding down, but in the vineyard, a new season is just beginning.
