It’s hard to believe, but winemakers from several parts of the Napa Valley report being done or close to being done picking grapes for the 2015 vintage. Harvest normally continues into late October or even early November for most vintners, but not this year. In some of the cooler hillside areas, a few blocks of Read the full article…

It’s warmed up again since last week’s cooler temperatures and light rain, nudging along an already early and accelerated harvest season. Some Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are still taking on a few more days of sun and warmth, but most red varieties have ripened and are being brought in. A bit unusually, Napa Valley Read the full article…

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…

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…

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…