In Dambach-la-Ville, in the heart of the Alsace vineyards, the heatwave has settled in. As a result, days begin very early at the Schaeffer-Woerly family estate.
As organic winegrowers, we take full advantage of the cool morning hours to care for our vines. Meanwhile, the sun rises over our faithful D22 tractor.
In the photo, the tractor stands between the rows, bathed in the first light of day. It is often at this hour that part of the vintage is decided.
While most people are still asleep, we are already out in the vineyard. We trellis the vines, lift the wires and guide the shoots before the heat becomes too strong.
These early hours are invaluable because they allow us to work calmly. They also give us time to observe each plot closely. As organic growers, we adjust our gestures carefully and prepare the vines to face the heatwave.
In the quiet of the early morning, part of the quality of our future Alsace wines is already taking shape.
Vine trellising: essential work during the heatwave in Dambach-la-Ville
At the moment, much of our work is devoted to trellising the vines. This means guiding and lifting the shoots onto the wires so they grow upright and stay well aerated. They also receive the right amount of sunlight.
By keeping the foliage in the right place, we prevent tangling and reduce the risk of wind damage. We also keep the rows clear so we can move through them without harming the vines.
It is careful work, but it is essential for grape quality, especially during periods of intense heat. On our 8 hectares of organically farmed vines, we trellis the main Alsace grape varieties: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Sylvaner, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, Pinot Noir and Muscat.
Each variety has its own growth habit and its own sensitivity to heat and light. Therefore, trellising helps us manage sun exposure and air circulation in each row. It helps preserve the freshness, balance and character of our Dambach-la-Ville terroirs.
Although these quiet morning hours in the vineyard may go unnoticed, they are already shaping the next vintage. Behind every glass of wine from the Schaeffer-Woerly family estate lies this precise, repeated work. We carry it out as close to the vine as possible.
Under the heat, the vine keeps growing
Despite the scorching temperatures, we continue to monitor the vines closely. We must find the right balance: allowing the grapes to ripen while limiting the effects of drought. At the estate, every pass through the vineyard matters, especially at this time of year, when the vines need our full attention.
After working among the rows, we return to the tasting cellar with the same goal: to bring our work to life in your glass. Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir… each bottle tells the story of the season, the terroir and the care given to the vines throughout the year.
Finally, we are always happy to welcome you to the Schaeffer-Woerly family estate in Dambach-la-Ville. Come and discover our organic viticulture, taste our wines in the cool of the cellar, and if you wish, take a few bottles home with you.
