The almighty, through nature, regularly demonstrates his dominion over humanity by providing the amazing bounty of the land, the rhythm of the seasons, the changing weather, the warmth and the cold, the sun and the rains.  While all real wealth comes from the earth, we are constantly reminded that care and hard work are required to see that the productive capacity of “the place” is realized.  Never was this so evident as when we acquired Kirby Estate.  Together with our Farm Manager, Craig Wismer we quickly gained a keen appreciation for the terroir - the soils, the vines, the surroundings – both plants and wildlife, and the labour, equipment and other resources required to keep all in a harmonious balance and sustainably productive and regenerative.
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The vineyard is as much a work of art as it is science, wherein the rows of vines and resulting fruit are laid down meticulously and precisely, and then carefully maintained.  The pruning season typically happens in winter, observing a resulting set number of canes and buds per plant.  The spring involves tying and positioning the canes, followed by tucking and hedging the canopy.  As the season progresses, the fruit zone is de-leafed and there is constant cover-crop mowing and mulching between the rows, thus naturally revitalizing the soil.  As veraison comes and goes the season turns to harvest.  Constant vigilance and remedial actions are necessary to battle the elements and pests that constantly challenge the farmer.  At season’s end the farmer puts the vines to bed for the winter and for protection from frost by hilling-up the soil around the base of the vines.
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So the cadence of the vintage growing cycle reminds us that we are merely a part of a larger mosaic of nature’s rhythm.  The vines provide sustenance for not only our wine passions, but also for many other birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and plants.  We realize that we are charged with the responsibility to maintain and nurture “the place” as stewards for the brief tenure that we are blessed to hold.  Our efforts can preserve and improve “the place” through hard work, creativity, and planting anew – ensuring that its better for the next custodian farmer link in the endless chain of stewardship time.