Every successful vineyard owes its success to the hard work, perseverance, and love poured into it. Behind Bago Maze and Wine stands Debbie, an integral part of the team who holds a strong passion for farming and the outdoors which makes her an invaluable asset to the vineyard. Here, we take a closer look at Debbie's role and gain insights into her world of tending and nurturing the vines.
With over a decade of experience, Debbie has become intimately familiar with the seasonal rhythms and the crucial role she plays in caring for the grapevines. For her, it all begins with the pruning process. Pruning is the process of cutting back last season's vine growth so the new season's growth can be controlled in a manner that will provide optimal fruiting. It is conducted annually in winter when the vine is dormant.
Rising early in the morning, Debbie carefully trims away old vines, making room for new shoots to grow strong and healthy in the upcoming year. It's a labour-intensive task, but one that gives Debbie a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
“Haha, no I actually don’t drink wine. For me it’s the farming, I love it!”
As she spends her mornings in the vineyard, Debbie is captivated by the ever-changing environment around her. Witnessing the vines adapt to the elements of nature is a mesmerising sight, reminding her of the resilience and beauty of the natural world. For Debbie, it's not just about the wine; it's about forging a deep connection with the earth and becoming a loyal caretaker of the land.
Pruning isn't simply about removing dead vines—it's a precise process of selecting the most promising ones to nurture throughout the growing season. With years of experience under her belt, Debbie can identify the potential of a vine with a single glance. Every snip she makes shapes the future of the vines, ensuring their optimal growth and fruitfulness.
Debbie's commitment to her craft is unwavering. Pruning all the vines on the property takes her an impressive three months, but her tireless efforts keep Bago consistently ahead of schedule. Her dedication keeps the vineyard thriving, giving each vine the best chance to reach its full potential.
Beyond her extensive horticultural knowledge, Debbie's presence in the vineyard brings a sense of harmony. As she meticulously tends to each vine, she becomes attuned to the ebb and flow of the seasons. Her passion and dedication act as a foundation upon which the vineyard flourishes, ensuring the creation of exceptional wines.
So, the next time you savor a glass of wine from Bago, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and unwavering dedication of Debbie and others like her. Through their diligent care, they create a legacy that goes beyond the vines themselves, allowing us to enjoy the true beauty of nature in every sip.