Leaving the comfort of my bed, I stand before my bedroom window, stretching out my arms with purpose and running my fingers through my hair. I think I really like my new haircut. It’s shorter than I usually like, but it is very easy and my curls like it. I had a good night’s sleep and I feel ready to take on the day.
I watch as the sun comes up and burns off the dew. There are a few white fluffy clouds, but the sky is a beautiful blue. The grapevines are looking spectacular this morning; the leaves are a beautiful vibrant green, and the grape clusters are growing plumper and taking on more color with each passing day. I think about how the vines were dry and brown, and so sad from drought in the not-too-distant past.
Papa wanted me to come home and take over the vineyard as his health declined. I was very concerned when I began this journey, but I decided to take on the new adventure and rise to the occasion. Now that he is gone, I do miss him so. My brothers have offered to help but do not want the bother of being in charge of the operation. They are busy with their own lives and families.
Actually, the opportunity came at a good time in my life. My law practice was successful, but I was becoming distracted and thinking about making some changes. I knew I had to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city. The peacefulness of the vineyard is intoxicating, but also a lot of hard work. I made my decision and moved back to the place where I grew up.
As a child, I walked about the vineyard and played with my dog or sat on the porch and cuddled with my cat. I didn’t think about the things involved in running the family business, I just enjoyed the benefits. But I guess I did pick up some information and ideas about what is involved, because as I took time to study and learn about enology in earnest, I came to realize the process wasn’t totally foreign to me.
My new goal now is to make the best wine possible with my little vineyard crop. Papa always said I may be small, but I am fierce. I took that on as my mantra long ago, and it has served me well over the years. I used my fierceness in school to get the degree I wanted, in court to challenge the defense, and now as I stand and take on nature in the vineyard.
Following my breakfast of Pain Perdu, the French Toast I love so much, I make my way over to the old stone visitors’ center. A small group of American tourists will arrive late morning for a brief history of the vineyard and wine-tasting experience. This is my favorite part of my work here; I love to share stories about growing up here and my father’s passion for “the grape”. I find pleasure introducing the excitement of the wine-making process and the final triumph of our exquisite product.
I see the small bus carrying the Americans coming down the entry road. I’m feeling especially lighthearted this morning and step out of the entry with a broad smile and a cordial “Bonjour! Welcome to Vineyard Lambert.” Little do they know that I intend to offer them a fun experience opportunity.
A group of about fifteen people step down from the bus and look excitedly about the grounds. I hear their comments, and smile. “So beautiful!” “I love this place.” “Wonderful.”
They are dressed like seasoned travelers. Women are dressed in jeans or leggings and comfortable shirts, and they wear hats and walking shoes. Although one lady is wearing ballet type flats. She must be so uncomfortable walking on cobblestone; it has to be a vanity thing. Various large purses and shoulder bags are everywhere. One older woman has a colorful scarf with flowers and fringe draped over her shoulder. I think I like it. The men are dressed in shorts or casual slacks with comfortable shirts, hats, and running or walking shoes. Some have small backpacks.
This is a particularly chatty and friendly group. I’m always curious about American visitors, after having spent time at California wineries to enhance my knowledge. Also, I have a chance to use my English language skills. I try to make as few mistakes as possible.
I share about the fact that this vineyard began as my father’s dream and that he planted all the grapevines, with only the help of his brother. Over time, he added several varieties of grapes and began producing wines that have become very popular in the area. I share that I still produce a limited volume of bottled wine, but it is very much in demand.
I have an attendant, Marie, who helps me set up for visitors, and I encourage folks to go in for the wine tasting session. I laugh at the mock protests of sampling wine before lunch. I tell everyone that there is also a bit of cheese and bread to munch on as well. Marie has set a splendid table for our visitors, and they happily partake.
I talk briefly about each wine I am presenting and share the tastes. I am delighted at the responses of strangers to my humble offerings. I am pleased to sell a few bottles as well.
With carefree music playing in the background, I address the group by asking. “Who would like to stomp some grapes for me today? With your bare feet of course!” Immediately several hands go up, shoes and socks are removed, feet are washed, pants rolled up and skirts tucked up at the waist. My grape-stomping guests choose from the four large grape vats placed in the common area. As festive music begins, the grape-stomping celebration goes into full swing.
My Papa would truly be delighted with this happy activity and all the smiling faces. Even as the stomping slows and all the purple feet are rinsed to no avail, my visitors laugh and enjoy themselves. I think I will continue to offer the “grape stomp” whenever possible from now on.
The woman wearing the flowered scarf with fringe asks laughingly, “How long will my feet be purple?” I shrug my shoulders and smile, “Probably for a while.”
“It gives me a such great story to tell,” she happily replies, eyes sparkling.
And then my guests, total strangers no longer, get back in their small bus and are whisked away on another adventure. I wave “Au revoir.”
As for me, after tidying up, I wander the grounds. I check the vines of ripening grapes and look for any potential problems. I smile to myself and think about Papa and the work ethic and confidence that he instilled in me. I am so glad he saw fit to want me to take over the vineyard. I think he knew just what I needed to find some peace and satisfaction in life.
Well, it is late afternoon now. I think I shall have a glass of my lovely wine and will listen to the birds and look for shapes in the clouds. Things will be super busy again very soon with the coming harvest.
Author: Evelyn Panfili
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