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WineEast During this same time frame in early September, we received some Merlot from one of the better vineyards in our area. The grower was hit hard on yields, but the fruit we did receive was in ex- cellent condition. Brix levels were normal, and the grapes required only a small amount of chaptalization and a bit more nitrogen during fermentation. It became clear as the grapes fermented that the biggest difference in this year's Merlot was the lower level of tannins in the grapes. We added nearly twice the recommended amount of tannin adjustments that we typically use to augment flavor profiles, and the resulting wine is now very well balanced. Later developing varieties such as Chambourcin, Cabernet Sau- vignon and Cabernet Franc seemed to survive the vagaries of the weather and produce reasonably ripened fruit. The only variety that demonstrated any differences during fermentation was Chambourcin, a grape variety that has a tendency to lose its structural integrity toward the end of fermentation. The cap loses its strength, and the juice permeates much higher into the cap sooner than just about any variety I have encountered. This year Chambourcin completely fell apart during fermentation. One lot completely blinded the filter press, and it took heroic efforts on the part of our cellar staff to clear it out. The other lots were also more difficult than normal. In summary, this harvest season has certainly tested the skills of both grapegrowers and winemakers. There are lessons to be learned both in the vineyard and in the cellar. But for the consumer, I am hopeful that there will be many pleasant wines to experience from this harvest. —Richard Carey AS GOOD AS IT GETS. Natural Corks Champagne Corks Twinline Corks Bartops VISION® G-Cap® Wine Stopper Screw Cap Sales Representatives Chris & Liz Stamp info@lakewoodcork.com Lakewood Cork 4024 State Route 14 Watkins Glen, NY 14891 lakewoodcork.com 607-535-9252 607-535-6656 Fax Wines & Vines DeCeMBeR 2011 63 When You Require A Consistent Supply GRAPE SOURCING: WINERY SUPPLY: TRANSPORTATION: By variety, appellation or specification All equipment and supplies for all phases of winemaking Logistical network operating daily from coast to coast Your Source For Quality Products including: fresh grapes, juice and bulk wine 101 Reserve Road * Hartford, CT 06114 * 877-812-1137 * Sales@JuiceGrape.com