Sam and Bob have been able to visit Epernay in Champagne for the trade exposition, something they're not normally able to do as it coincides with our harvest. It gave them an opportunity to talk with other sparkling wine makers and see what equipment is available. They don't seem to have bought themselves any new toys, but perhaps they're just not saying - I won't be at all surprised to see a lorry turn up from France with something new for us.

An almost tropical October has seen the vine leaves turn golden or red, but an absence of the usual gales or any air frost has meant they're stubbornly sticking to the vines. I'm itching to start winter pruning, but we must wait until the leaves have fallen, and any goodness in the canes has returned to the roots ready to sustain the leafless vine next spring. Also it's almost impossible to see what you're doing with all the leaves in place. You can't easily tell how well a vine has done over the year and consequently how many buds to leave on for next year, and the bundles of prunings with accompanying leaves are quite unmanageable.

But the main reason for not starting yet is the heat - never thought I'd be saying that in November! With so many things to carry when you're pruning - secateurs, sharpening stone, wire ties, clips, saw, and string, you need to wear something with lots of pockets. The ideal garment is of course the trusty wax jacket, which is fine in a normal winter, but on a sunny day makes you feel like you're in a sauna. Still, better to be too warm than too cold!
 

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