Sonoma, Ca (August 16, 2019) – The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance (SVVGA), a non-profit trade association representing more than 100 wineries and 140 grape growers in Sonoma Valley, welcomed the first grape pick of the 2019 Harvest this morning at 12:00 AM at Sasaki Vineyards in Sonoma Valley approximately 15 tons of Pinot Noir grapes were brought in for sparkling wine for Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards. This marks the 195th winegrape Harvest in the Sonoma Valley wine region.
Tito and Janet Sasaki, Photo Credit: Gentleman & a Ginger
Grape growers and vineyard owners, Tito and Janet Sasaki quoted, “These are the most beautiful grapes we have ever seen! The crew we have this year is an exceptional group, by far the cleanest pick we have had.” The 14-acre vineyard was planted in 1974. Tito Sasaki is most notably known for his work serving as a former Sonoma County Farm Bureau President.
To commemorate the beginning of the 2019 vintage, the entire Sonoma Valley community will participate in a traditional valley-wide bell ringing at high noon this afternoon. Growers, vintners, the local wine community, Sonoma Valley Fire and Police departments, local elected officials, industry partners and more will gather at the San Francisco Mission Solano bell, today, to ‘ring in the 2019 harvest’ in Sonoma Valley and commemorate the region’s most celebrated season.
Earlier this July, SVVGA hosted the second Annual Harvest Kickoff Party, where more than 300 vintners and growers gathered at The Donum Estate in Los Carneros to share in a celebration, and toast of the region’s most anticipated time of year. As the tradition goes, an Honorary Bell Ringer is named who exemplifies true dedication, expertise and passion for grape growing. This year, longtime, notable grape grower and owner of Palo Alto Vineyard Management, Jesus ‘Chuy’ Ordaz, with assistance by his son and winemaker Eppifanio (Eppie) Ordaz, rang the Official Harvest Bell honoring the tradition.
SVVGA Board President and COO of Price Family Vineyards & Estates, Prema Behan, quotes, “Our heritage includes leadership in California winemaking, exceptional growing conditions and iconic vineyard sites. It’s our commitment to winegrowing and the winemaking of world-class wines that is especially evident in days like today. Cheers to a great 2019 Harvest!”
Photo Credit: Gentleman & a Ginger
SVVGA encourages community members and the public to follow along today on Facebook and Instagram for live video of the Bell Ringing, and later this season as harvest continues across Sonoma Valley.
SVVGA recognizes the hard work and unprecedented dedication of Sonoma Valley vintners, growers and our skilled labor force in producing the highest quality winegrapes and premium wines.
About SVVGA
The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance (SVVGA) is a non-profit organization serving over 500 members who share a mission to promote awareness of Sonoma Valley’s grapes, wine and history as the birthplace of the California wine industry. Sonoma Valley comprises six of the seventeen American Viticulture Areas (AVAs) of Sonoma County: Bennett Valley, Los Carneros, Moon Mountain District, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma Mountain and Sonoma Valley. To learn more about the SVVGA visit www.SonomaValleyWine.com or call 707-935-0803.
