Let’s Bottle Some “Grape Juice”.

Over the weekend Katy and I participated in wine barrel bottling at RainSong Vineyard a small family-operated vineyard and winery. This was actually the second time we participated in bottling for the McKenzie River Trail Run (MRTR). A bottle of wine was part of the swag given to runners who completed the 50k run at the September race. It was such a big hit they decided to do it again. Since our husbands are two of the race directors we are naturally a part of the event. Last year we designed a new logo for the run. We also designed a custom label for their wine, and look forward to creating a label for next year’s bottles.

It’s great fun to bottle your own wine for consumption and gift giving, or to celebrate an event. We bottled two barrels (49 cases) for MRTR, which by the time the McKenzie River Trail Run roles around, will be perfect for consumption. Not to say it wasn’t already pretty tasty. Yes, we got to taste test our barrels as well as some of the wine from other barrels of different varietals.

I know I have mentioned the MRTR before as our summer ends up being pretty full of running events and KAP Art projects leading up to the September race. So far this year we have designed t-shirts, arm warmers, hats, wine labels, brochures and registration forms, as well as posters for several running events. Next year looks to include more of the same. Something about designing for such events seems not like work at all. It’s more of a way to support our spouse’s passion as well as our personal passion. I should clarify…Katy actually likes to run too, me on the other hand would prefer to be on the sideline yelling words of encouragement to those crazy enough to participate. I assure you all yelling is done with passionate enthusiasm.

If you are interested in bottling some wine give RainSong a call. They are only open twice a year for tasting; over the Memorial Day Weekend in May and Thanksgiving Weekend in November. The only other way to visit is to set up a barrel-bottling event. It requires as few as 6 people, but they can accommodate a maximum of 30 people. RainSong owners Mike and Merry Fix are a delight, and are sure to help you create lasting happy memories. Watch out though, it may become a tradition.

Cheers.