The Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance (SVVGA), a non-profit trade association representing more than 100 wineries and 140 grape growers in the Sonoma Valley, continued the tradition of their annual Harvest Kickoff Ceremony and Bell Ringing at the Mission San Francisco Solano in the Sonoma Valley.
Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance developed this ceremony to recognize and celebrate the demanding work and unprecedented dedication of Sonoma Valley growers and vintners, as they continue to produce the highest quality winegrapes and wines.
On August 17, the entire community of Sonoma Valley participated in the bell ringing, symbolizing the beginning of Sonoma Valley’s most anticipated time of year, which signals to the community at large that harvest has begun.
“The bell ringing and harvest blessing is one of our sweet valley’s most exciting and anticipated traditions,” said Prema Behan, SVVGA Board President.
“The energy is always high as we prepare ourselves as a valley and an industry to get to the magnificent work of harvesting grapes and making some of America’s finest wines.
To mark the 197th harvest is a point of immense pride for our entire region! It is an honor for me to serve the SVVGA and our amazing membership as we leap into action for the vintage”