BLACKARD GROUP > ADRIATICA > NEWS FROM THE VILLAGE > WINERY

This web page is your source of information on progress of the Winery in Adriatica at Stonebridge Ranch. Email your questions to info@blackard.net then check back regularly to the "Residents Questions" for your answer. Visit our newest page listing links to the Friends and Partners of Adriatica. Please visit their web pages and learn about them.

April 6, 2008 - New picture of the vinyard... We suspect we will have a beautiful vineyard this year.

May 17, 2007 - Below is a picture of the vines taken today. While some replacements are needed as a result of last years drought, the rest are looking healthy and vibrant. Any grapes to be expected?

March 23, 2007 - The vines have been pruned in preparation of this years growing season.

August 26, 2006 - In spite of the 100 degree days and minimal rainfall, most of the grape vines have survived. Those that didn't survive will be replaced by others. John Wales of Wales Manor is holding in reserve at his winery about 2,000 plants that will be transplanted in Adriatica in 3 different locations. Thanks to John and his crew for literally "sweating" over the transplanting of these vines in less than desirable weather conditions. Over the next few weeks, we will be removing the weeds and rocks in preparation for the planting of winter rye for erosion control during the rainy months.

May 8, 2006 - The bunja and the well and the arched entrance are built , the trellises and irrigation are installed, that must mean it is close to planting time for the vineyard.

April 4, 2006 - The Bunja is complete and a stone table with 4 chairs have been installed in the vineyard along Stonebridge Drive. Also, the beginnings of a well has been built near the entrance to the vineyard. Later this week, trellises will be installed and within the next two weeks, grapes will be planted.

March 30, 2006 - As many of you drive north on Stonebridge Drive, you will notice a small stone building that has been built in the vineyard. This is called a Bunja, which in Croatia is a small 'out building' used to store equipment in the fields. Matthew Johnson & Claudio Solano have carved a table and 4 seats out of stone to sit behind the Bunja so the public can relax and enjoy the view from the vineyard. Once the table is set in place, I will upload the pictures.

February 2 , 2006 - John Wales of Wales Manor has agreed to start a commercial Winery in Adriatica. 10 acres of vineyards will be planted in various places around Adriatica. One place in particular is on the 'hill' along Stonebridge Drive. Just as the wine cellars were built 1,000 years ago, an underground wine cellar will be carved out of the bedrock to maintain a constant temperature. With stone walls and heavy beams on the ceiling, this may well be the coolest winery around. Jeff Blackard will be traveling to Croatia to look for an ancient wine press and plans are to build a second press outside for public viewing. Also planned are a tasting room and an area for retail sales. The proposed location is in the Harbor Business District overlooking the harbor. When construction begins, which should be in the next 30 to 60 days days, pictures will be posted here.