One of the common denominators of the neighborhood I live in is that most of the folks love to travel. Italy is a popular destination . . . Rome, Tuscany, Venice, etc. Lately, however, in talking over travel plans with friends and neighbors, I see that Umbria is included in their itineraries. To me, this makes tremendous sense.

Established in 1808 in the village of Tain L’Hermitage in the Northern Rhone, Chapoutier has grown to be a world-wide producer and distributor of quality wines. It is typically their top Hermitage wines, both red and white, that receive the most attention and accolades.

This is a very special and unique time of year at each and every vineyard. When the winemaker announces that it is time to start the harvest, most of the employees at the vineyard leave their different positions and come together as one team to do one thing and that is to pick grapes. And why not? The harvest is what all of the employees have been working so hard for and it is a prime example of the term “all hands.” Just be prepared for some long hours and maybe a few all-nighters so that the fruit can be harvested in the cooler weather.