Our colleagues at the Napa Valley Grapegrowers brought together a panel of industry experts on October 12 to discuss Napa Valley’s 2016 growing season, as well as other insights and challenges currently facing Napa Valley grapegrowers and wine producers today. Visit the Napa Valley Grapegrowers website for more information about the conference and speakers.
Harvest Updates
Nearing the Finish Line
Thanks to a recent series of warm days, many vineyards progressed to perfect ripeness resulting in a grape picking frenzy at the end of September. October started with some light showers that settled the dust, but did not threaten any grapes remaining on the vine. With warm temperatures predicted for at least the next week, Read the full article…
Wild Weather Roller Coaster Ride
Like an amusement park ride, recent temperatures have gone up, hovering at 100 degrees on the 18th; back down, to the low 50s overnight midweek; and now they’re headed back up with another 100 degree day predicted on the 25th. The result? Picking of white wine grapes is essentially done. Most of the medium-bodied reds, Read the full article…
Ready for Reds
Perfect weather continues, stretching this year’s harvest for more than six weeks so far. Vintners from Carneros to Calistoga are reporting that aromatic white grapes like Sauvignon Blanc are mostly off the vine. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir harvests are winding down and the first reds – like Zinfandel, Syrah and a smattering of Merlot and Read the full article…
White Wine is Divine
The pace is picking up, with a variety of Napa Valley white wine grapes now hitting the crush pad: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Pinot Grigio and even some Chardonnay. Winemaking crews are getting busier, but they are happy and smiling because the quality of this year’s harvest is truly exceptional so far. Yields are also looking Read the full article…
