Round Pond Estate kicked off this year’s harvest with six and a half tons of Chardonnay from their Rutherford estate vineyard on Tuesday, July 21. Winemaker Jeff Plant says, “We are looking for the stars to align. We need acid, sugar and flavor to all be in sync at the exact same moment. Sparkling is arguably the most difficult pick to call because your pick window is so tight.”

Sparkling wine grapes are among the first harvested each year because they’re picked to preserve the bright acidity and freshness that define great sparkling wines. Plant says Napa Valley’s unique growing conditions make it an exceptional place to produce sparkling wine. “We have very unique terroir in Napa. It’s the perfect combination of warm days, cool nights and really great deep soils. Sparkling wines from Napa always have an incredible balance that makes them some of the best in the world.”

While only the earliest fruit is being picked, winery teams throughout the valley are preparing for the exciting weeks ahead as another vintage gets underway.

Stay tuned for more updates on #Harvest2026!