Drought in California, but Vineyards are Fighting May 28 2014

If you live in California or have paid attention to The Weather Channel, you will have noticed the awful drought conditions currently plaguing our state.

The rainy season in Napa last year brought us only 14 inches of rain (77% of normal), and the prospects for additional rainfall this year aren’t looking much better.  In fact, we set dryness records that date all the way back to 1908.

Some water dependent crops are going unplanted in order to divert available water to long-term investment crops, such as oranges, almonds, and, our favorite, vineyards!

What does this mean for the state of Napa Valley wines?  

Well, The Wine Institute says that wine and grape quality will not be affected by these drought conditions, and although we may see some yields impacted over the next 2-3 years depending on weather this year, we had record high harvests in Napa in 2012 and 2013.

Vineyards are like the heavyweight champions of crops…they take a few hits and might struggle a little, but they often emerge stronger for having made the journey.  Lucky for us, huh?

Our 2012 and 2013 harvests are in barrel right now, but the harvest reports came back overwhelmingly positive, not just for us, but also around the Valley.  I think we’re in for some special juice!

This doesn’t mean we don’t wish for rain; the whole state needs some, terribly!  But as we look out the front door at least we know we’re working with the Muhammad Ali of crops.

Wishing you all a great Wednesday with delicious wines!

Jessica Stock
National Sales Manager