Winemaker crushed by tractor in recovery

A Californian grape grower is in a “stable condition” after an accident on his vineyard saw him crushed by a tractor causing “severe skeletal” injuries.

David Hirsch, 70, was showing an employee how to use the tractor when he was struck by its bucket becoming crushed between the moveable arms and the main body of the vehicle, according to a report in the Press Democrat.

Hirsch was airlifted to hospital in a serious condition following the accident on Saturday at his Fort Ross vineyard, but is now believed to be in a stable condition.

His daughter, Jasmine Hirsch, who told the paper that his condition was improving, did not reveal specifics of the injuries sustained but said her father had maintained consciousness throughout.

She said: “They haven’t really gotten specific about a timeline yet.

“He’s going to be in the hospital awhile, and he’s going to need rehab.”

“He’s alert. He’s been talking to us.”

Hirsch founded Hirsch Vineyards in 1980 producing premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from his Sonoma Coast vineyards.

He was described by members of the wine community in the local newspaper as  “legendary” and an industry “icon.”