The “bud” contains everything that will become the plant. The grapes, the leaves, the shoots- they all start out in that tiny bud. The “break” refers to the tiny buds literally breaking out of the protective gear that they hide under when its cold and they’re in winter dormancy. You will first see a swell on the cane, then a break in the bark.  The leaves and shoots begin to elongate out of the buds, which have been tightly packed and protected all winter. These small, fuzzy leaves contain all the components of the upcoming growing season More than anything, bud break is poetic; it signifies the end of winter and the beginning of that year’s real growing season. From bud break on, keep watch on the vines’ every move and prepare for harvest.