As we wrap up another growing season on Seneca Lake, we’re reflecting on what made the 2025 vintage one to look back on with high regard. This year challenged and rewarded us in equal measure, reminding us how deeply our wines are rooted in the strength of our vineyards and the dedication of our team.
The 2025 growing season began with a mild winter and very wet spring. It was hard to envision that post-budbreak it would turn into one of the warmest and driest vintages in recent memory. The higher-than-average rainfall in May and June kept the vineyard team on high alert for signs of mildew. Their hard work helped mitigate major damage to delicate new buds during bloom and fruit set. Budbreak arrived right on time in the third week of April with the first buds popping in the HJW Vineyard Chardonnay, followed closely by Pinot Noir from Julia.
