Saying a prayer for good grape harvest
Since the first year the vines were planted at Sonoita Vineyards, Father Greg Adolf from Saint Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Sierra Vista and members of the clergy from other denominations have gathered every spring to say a short prayer and throw holy water onto the vines.
“We feel that having our vineyard blessed every year is important,” said Lori Reynolds, a winemaker at Sonoita Vineyards.
“We want to ask for the Holy Father’s blessings with the upcoming growing season and harvesting, and that these grapes end up making many award-winning wines.”
This Saturday, the public is welcome to come to the winery and watch as the vines are blessed during the 39th annual Blessing of Sonoita Vineyards.
While there, Reynolds said, they can sample the wines and try the release of the vineyard’s 2013 Estate Arizona Merlot.
Admission includes four food and wine pairings, six drink tickets, winery and vineyard tours and live music.
“We have three amazing musicians coming,” Reynolds said. Neamen Lyles will perform from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by Corey Spector at 12 and 2:15 p.m. and Kari & the Last Call Band at 1:15 and 3:15 p.m.
“We also will have The Steak Out restaurant here serving lunches,” Reynolds said.
Reynolds, who is also the granddaughter of Gordon Dutt, the founder of Sonoita Vineyards, said she is expecting around 600 people to attend the festival.
Adolf has blessed the vineyards every year since the 1970s, Reynolds said, and he always brings clergy from other denominations with him.
“He tells me that we need our bases loaded,” she said.
As for whether or not the blessing has a tangible impact on the vineyards, Reynolds said she believes it makes a difference.
“I think the blessing has a wonderful impact on the grapes,” she said. “When you give positive energy to anything, it will grow well and thrive.”