Harvest continues its full-press pace, having really kicked in with last week’s hot temperatures. Everyone is grateful for cooler temperatures this week, to give both people and grapes a breather. Rain on Wednesday was most welcome as it lightly hydrated and rinsed the grapes still hanging, which continue to develop and concentrate flavors. Almost all Read the full article…
Harvest Updates
A Moment in Time
By Saturday, all that we’ve been working with at harvest was put in perspective as the Valley Fire blew up to the northeast in Lake County. The human side of our business is especially important at a time like this and seeing our friends and neighbors in crisis reminds us of what really matters. I’m Read the full article…
In the Heart of the White Wine Harvest: Chardonnay Coming In
OK. It’s official. We’re really in the groove now with this week’s start of the Chardonnay harvest. Urged on by a recent spate of warm days, which were complemented by nighttime temperatures that dropped into the 50s and low 60s, the ripening process thus far has been balanced and in check. Although this year’s Chardonnay Read the full article…
Here Come the Whites!
After grapes for sparkling wines, Sauvignon Blanc and other wine grapes, often referred to as aromatic whites, are typically the next Napa Valley grapes to be brought from the vineyard to the crush pad. These grapes tend to mature earlier than most other grapes. Their sought-after and refreshing citrus, tropical and other fruit flavors are Read the full article…
Harvest Napa Valley 2015 is Underway!
The first grapes were picked at dawn on Wednesday, July 22, heralding an early start for this year’s harvest season. The grapes are destined to become Napa Valley sparkling wine and are usually the first to be picked. The reason? To ensure the bright acidity that winemakers are looking for in this style of wine. Read the full article…




