We sat down with our Winemaker, Patrick Sullivan, to debrief 2020 and get a teaser of what’s to come in 2021. Additionally, Patrick also shares an exciting update about Boatique’s on-site production process!
We finished our 2020 grape harvest in the fall. What was exciting about this year’s harvest?
Patrick Sullivan: “This harvest was the first for Boatique’s newest property, Madi’s Vineyard. We planted in 2017 with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes, and we are excited at the potential of this vineyard. Even in their young state, the wines are showing great promise.
What are the 2020 grapes doing right now?
Patrick: The Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé are sitting in their egg tanks evolving while they await their spring bottling. All of the red wines are resting in barrels after their primary and secondary fermentations. With red wine production being brought on-site, we also built a new barrel room located at the top of the estate, so now everything needed to make wine is here at the estate!
You mentioned some exciting production changes. Can you share more?
Patrick: “In the past, Boatique has always produced our Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé of Malbec wines on-site. With this 2020 harvest, all of our red wines are also being fermented and aged here as well. I’m really happy to have the whole process take place right here on the estate. I can watch every step of the process: from vine to bottle, then into your glass in the Tasting Room!”
That’s great! How can people learn even more about this new process for Boatique’s Reds?
Patrick: “Our Wine Educators at Boatique are very knowledgeable. After we launched this new process, they promptly integrated it into the Captain’s Table Tour and Tasting package. If you are interested in learning more about our changes at Boatique Winery, I recommend you take the tour. You’ll get to see firsthand the new equipment we have on-site while learning more about our refreshed winemaking process for our Reds.”
Congratulations on not only creating promising new wines, but upgrading our production process… all during a very challenging year!
Patrick: “Thank you. We’re always looking to improve every aspect here at the winery. This year has brought it’s challenges but we’ve adapted, improved and are looking forward to the many years to come. I can’t wait to open a bottle with you all in the spring!”
About the Winemaker:
Patrick Sullivan is Boatique Winery’s award-winning Winemaker. He has degrees in Molecular Cell Biology from UC Berkeley and a Masters Degree in Enology from CSU Fresno. He has worked for Peter Michael Winery, Rudd Winery, and Lewis Cellars in addition to creating his own label, Greystack Winery. Learn more about Patrick.
