Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/80303
MANA GEMENT dropping directly from a roof leader into the top of a tank. On the left a 30-foot diameter compass is etched into the concrete patio, marking magnetic and true north—the orientation of rows of vines in the vineyard directly to the south. At its eastern edge is a curved wall just the right height for setting down a wineglass. Copper nameplates inscribed with the founders' names are bent over the top of the wall. Beyond the compass to the south is a trellis providing cool shade for wine tasters who choose to sip wine outside the tasting room and take in views of the vineyard, Mingus Mountain to the south and the bluffs of Sycamore Canyon to the north. Easy access to the remaining three sides of the winery is possible via its own loop drive that also connects to a gravel vineyard road. At the far edge of the winery loop drive is a new swale planted in mesquite and desert willow. Landscaping is done with plants that are primarily indigenous and drought tolerant. Visitors park along the northern boundary, under the shade of a photovoltaic covered canopy. The winery will contain four main spaces: a fermentation room, two barrel-aging rooms and a tasting room. Vineyards, varietals and fermentation Nikki Check, director of viticulture and enology for the Southwest Wine Center, has planned the estate vine- yards around 16 grape varieties selected for their educational qualities as well as their maturity dates. At vineyard maturity, the college will be able to sell 23.5 tons of grapes to other winemakers. The first vineyard section was planted this spring, to be followed by additional acreage in 2013. The 54 WINES & VINES SEPTEMBER 2012