We're well into December, and all we can think is, where has the year gone?! I hope you can look back happily on how 2011 treated you.
Here at Gladstone Vineyard it's been the usual "never a dull moment"...
Right now, the vineyard team are working hard to keep up with the vines which are growing before their eyes. It was a late start to the season, bud burst was about two weeks later than usual, after the incredible snow we had here in August. But it's amazing how things catch up. What we need now, is more of this week's weather, light winds and warm temperatures to make sure that flowering and fruit set goes through quickly and well. That is a key determinant in the quality and quantity of our harvest. We've got some new people on the vineyard team this year to join some of our regulars.
We are thrilled that one of our previous summer vineyard team, Lauren McWilliam, has joined us on a permanent basis. Lauren is now working as our marketing and admin assistant in the office. She is doing a great job, quickly learning the ropes from export order accreditation through to all that is entailed in sales and marketing support, including work on our website and new online order system.
The cafe, under the legendary leadership of Peter Icke is in full swing, and is very busy in the run up to Christmas with lots of staff functions in the coming two weeks. We will be open between Christmas and New Year every day, and for the week after for those who are in the area over that time.
This week we had our staff Christmas BBQ. A chance to catch up, enjoy each other's company and wish Leo well before she heads to France for Christmas. Gerhard is already in South Africa, showing off his new son to family and friends there. So the GV team and friends are all round the globe this year. We all wish you and your loved ones a very happy and relaxing time over the holiday period.
