Volunteers played a crucial role in this year’s early grape harvest at Mumana Vineyards. Learn how our volunteer pickers helped bring in the grapes and how you can be part of this community-driven vineyard experience

At Mumana Vineyards, the harvest season is one of teamwork and joy. Over two weeks, we harvested five different grape varieties, from Petite Milo to New York Muscat, with the help of our dedicated team and volunteers. Despite challenges, the hard work of every picker made this season special. Read on to learn more about the highs and highlights of this year’s grape harvest.

Learn how Mumana Vineyards is navigating the environmental risks of planting vinifera grapes like Chardonnay and Riesling. Explore the impact of polar vortexes, the importance of choosing the right rootstock, and key strategies for protecting vines during their first critical years. Discover why vinifera is essential to Mumana’s future.

At Mumana Vineyards, we cherish our connection to the natural world, but protecting our grapes from birds poses a challenge that requires thoughtful intervention. In Falmouth, near the Avon River, we contend with species like starlings, robins, and cedar waxwings, all of which have a keen appetite for our fruit. To preserve our harvest, we’ve… Read more: Managing Bird Pests at Mumana Vineyards: Essential Strategies for Protecting Our Grapes

In February 2023, a polar vortex severely impacted Nova Scotia vineyards, including Mumana (formerly Johnston Vineyards). The extreme cold devastated our Chardonnay vines, though a few survived. We’re now exploring strategies to help our vines recover and considering options to replace the lost Chardonnay with cold-hardy varieties or hybrids. Join the conversation and share your insights on protecting vines from harsh winters and building resilience in grape cultivation.