The company ’ s organic farm , Milagro Farm and Winery , is located in Ramona , no more than 60 minutes away from each restaurant , and employs only organic growing methods such as crop rotations , mulching , and soil enrichment programs throughout their entire farm and vineyard . Not only does Milagro supply Whisknladle with produce and local wines , it is also a business partner . Mauser is the farm manager who oversees day-to-day operations . He points out that customers are more than welcome to visit the farm to see how things are done . So I did , eager to see firsthand this idea of farm to table . The first thing I noticed was just how small of an area the farm occupies . Supplying so much produce , fruit , and wines on a daily basis , I expected a sprawling complex full of modern equipment . Instead , there are gardens of all types plotted here and there to take advantage of the proper sunlight value for each crop , as well as large rows of planted crops , small growing beds , greenhouses , and shade cloth covered areas for herbs and smaller plants . I walked through rows of grapes , protected from birds , covering one portion of a windswept rise . The evidence of an educated and experienced cultivator is seen in every single aspect of this tiny farm . To the outside of the shade cloth protected area are fruit trees that line the property in scattered rows ; one here , one there , forming a small fruit bearing forest of peaches , apples , and other fruits . Some of the trees have been here for some time while others are smaller , just waiting to bear fruit . Drip lines run throughout this area and there are mounds of mulch and compost piled up around the forest .
Even though everything Milagro does is organic , it is not currently certified as organic , which Mauser says puts them in a difficult position because some people want to see that certification displayed . To me , though , the expertise used and the resulting quality are obvious . The time and effort that goes into this endeavor cannot be overlooked . Each plot is carefully maintained with a common sense approach to gardening such as netting , green house enclosures , straw beds , and other pest control practices . They do not use chemicals or pesticides and cut no corners when it comes to obtaining the best produce around . This farm is truly organic soil based and the results show it . All five restaurants prepare fresh meals every single day , very little is prepared in advance . The menus show an artistic approach common in this well-to-do area of pricey homes . The meals are filling and flavorful and prepared by some of the best chefs in the area . Menu items change with the season , allowing for the freshest ingredients to be used .
The Whisknladle chain of restaurants is one of a few in this area that grow their own produce , fruits , and grapes . The company recognized a demand for farm-to-table produce and developed a system that works . The hard work , expertise , and dedication that go into each and every dish are something that you just have to see and taste for a truly organic experience .
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The first thing I noticed was just how small of an area the farm occupies . Supplying so much produce , fruit , and wines on a daily basis , I expected a sprawling complex full of modern equipment .”
Jeff Walters is a former marine who spends most of his time outdoors fishing , hiking , hunting , and gardening . He is a self-educated former martial arts instructor , published author , hot rod enthusiast , and co-founder of many outdoor-related websites . His current focus in on green energy and learning how to live a sustainable lifestyle .
Maximum Yield USA | December 2016 81