The fig orchard forms another great part of the farm,
but more interesting to strangers are the vineyards. Some of the grapes
are growing over pointed stakes set all along the upland terraces; a
portion of the vineyards, however, is on level ground. Here a most
picturesque method has been used for training the vines. Tall and
graceful trees have been set out—elm, maple, oak, poplar. The lower
limbs of the trees have been cut away and up their trunks and around
their upper branches now swing the vines in magnificent festoons. The
growing vines have sprung from tree to tree. The warm breeze has set the
rich clusters—already turning purple or golden—swaying above our heads.
The air is filled with brightness, greenery, and fragrance. The effect
of this "vineyard grove" is magical.
William Davis, A Day in Old Athens
