We arrived in the early afternoon in time to see the grape diggers pulling their incredible haul out of the back of the truck. Wonderful, twisty, old grape vines. The grafts were originally brought from Italy, by the family of
Aldo Pia, the family responsible for most of the Italian vineyards in California. Twenty-six people went on the dig, which was organized by
Doug Philips and
David Whiteside. This abandoned vineyard is slated for plowing under at some point and everyone was grateful for the opportunity to save the trees. Our forum friend
Maria Kapra (Peter) dug about eight trees and had a terrific time. Oh how we envied him!
photo 1: grapes in the truck, with
John Thompson on the ramp
photo 2: Doug Philips and David Whiteside