We woke up this morning (if we went to sleep at all) relieved that the #HennesseyFire has continued to veer away from the valley floor. We’re hopeful that the hills to the east of #Napa have been through the worst of it. While not contained, the endless work that first responders and fire crews have done since Monday morning no doubt saved countless structures and lives.

The photos and videos coming out of the #Berryessa area in the northeast corner of our county are heartbreaking, and our community is turning our attention to helping those affected. And indeed, many of our friends and family in the Vaca Mountains on the east side are still evacuated. Napa has shown that it works together when our community needs help and this time will be no different. It’s nice to see neighbors helping neighbors throughout the community.

For much of the valley, first grapes are ready and most wineries are able to safely move forward with their “socially-distanced harvest”. Crush pads are seeing bins come in, crews are working hard early in the mornings, and winemakers are feeling optimistic about the potential that this year holds.

The photo above is of Jonathan Emmerich of Silverado Vineyards and his crew (we promise he started working right after this!), who kicked off #harvest2020 this morning. We might need haircuts and you might not be able to see us smiling under our masks, but know we’re working to create world class wines from what’s turning out to be a memorable #2020vintage.