In the Vineyards: Veraison Begins
The grapevine’s summer lifecycle is a journey of transformation. Following fruit set in early summer, our vines are now deep into veraison, a pivotal stage where berries begin to accumulate sugars, soften, and develop their full color and aroma. If you’re visiting Sonoma wineries this time of year, you might even catch the sweet scent of ripening grapes carried on the warm valley breeze—it’s nature’s way of telling us that harvest is near.
During this stage, our winemakers Katie Madigan and Chris Louton, are out in the vineyards, walking the rows, tasting berries, and closely monitoring sugar levels and overall fruit quality. These early assessments help guide important decisions for the upcoming 2025 vintage, ensuring each varietal is picked at just the right moment for optimal expression.
Sustainable Vineyard Practices in Action
Between spring and harvest, our vineyard management team, led by Director of Vineyards Jake Terrell, works tirelessly to prepare the vines for a healthy, high-quality vintage. From carefully trimming away leaves to allow for ideal sun exposure to tilling the soil to preserve water and promote biodiversity, every action we take supports sustainable farming practices. These efforts ensure that our estate vineyards—Wild Oak and Behler in Sonoma Valley, along with Lagomarsino and Rio Este in the Russian River Valley—are thriving and resilient.
Behind the Scenes: Preparing for the 2025 Vintage
In the cellar, our winemaking team, alongside our entire production crew, is gearing up for the rush of harvest. This includes fine-tuning equipment, tasting early fruit samples, and syncing plans with our vineyard teams. Every decision made now plays a role in preserving the unique character of each vineyard block.
At St. Francis, we believe that great winemaking begins in the vineyard. And with the 2025 vintage shaping up beautifully, we’re focused on ensuring that each grape reaches its full potential.
A Perfect Time to Experience Wine Country
With the vineyards in full transformation and harvest just on the horizon, now is a magical time to visit Sonoma. Walk among the vines, watch the colors deepen, and feel the energy of wine country as it prepares for the most important time of year. Whether you’re exploring the estate vineyards, savoring a culinary wine pairing, or simply taking in the view, you’ll witness firsthand the care, craftsmanship, and natural beauty behind each bottle.
Plan your visit today and experience the magic of the season in Sonoma. The grapes are changing—and you won’t want to miss it.
According to local lore, when the Pink Belladonna Lily blooms, harvest is just around the corner.