While the wines are aging away in the barrel room and the vines are dormant, you might think that the winemaker gets to enjoy some downtime and relaxing during this period but that is simply not the case. The work at a vineyard is a year round effort and continues throughout the winter. You might even say that some of the most important work is done during this period as it sets everything up for the coming growing period and harvest. With any discipline, it is common knowledge that it is much easier to end right if you start right. Wine making is no different.