In California, there is a region always referred to as “Wine Country.” This is a very popular area in Napa Valley, which is located in the northern portion of California. The allure is California wine. Tourists and locals alike are drawn to the vineyards and wineries that have made the valley famous. California connoisseurs thought they had to go to Napa or to France to get a good quality product, but surprising things are happening here in a new frontier for grape growers.

A New Vintage

Until the past few years, the Shasta County/Redding area was not thought of as a great place to grow grapes, but lately our local vineyards are getting a lot of attention, with several of them producing award-winning wines. Our local wineries produce both red and white wines. The local people are excited to be able to buy wine here where the grapes are grown and the wine is fermented, aged, and bottled.

A new residential development just south of Redding is being designed around some vineyards that will, hopefully, produce fine vintages in the future.

Northstate Flavor

The Shasta-Cascade Viticulture Association was formed in 2003 to help educate people in the art of vineyards and wineries. The soil in our region is perfect for growing grapes. Good soil, climate, and weather, along with education, is the recipe for good wine and we have all of it here.

A lot of land isn’t needed to have a good producing vineyard. Five acres is enough for a small one, and ten acres would be considered a large one. Most of the vineyards and wineries in this area are small. Harvesting time for a good crop of grapes can take 160 to 180 days, if the plant is mature. If the plants are only ” starts,” planting time to the first crop can take up to three years. The average life of a mature producing vine is 50–100 years.

If you are at a time in your life where you are wondering what to do with yourself when you retire, and maybe you would like to create a little supplemental income, come to the perfect area for growing grapes and start your own vineyard. With five acres, a shovel, a few vines, dedication, and education, in about three years, you might be bottling your own wine. There is nothing like placing your personal label on your first bottle. So plant your vines today and reap your harvest tomorrow.

Salute!!

Image Source: StockSnap.io

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