Northern California wineries are currently in a race against time as they hurriedly harvest their white grapes in anticipation of heavy rainfall. The looming weather conditions pose a risk of disease and potential damage to the wine crop.
The approach of rain has forced wineries in California’s North Bay to accelerate their harvest efforts. The urgency is palpable as they strive to pick their white grapes before the impending storm, which is forecasted to arrive within the next few days.
This year’s harvest in 2023 faced a delayed start due to an unusually cold and wet spring, which set back the ripening of grapes by two to three weeks. Now, winemakers face the additional challenge of safeguarding their crop against the approaching atmospheric river.
The anticipated atmospheric river is predicted to bring not only precipitation but also high winds to the region, with wind speeds of up to 30 miles per hour expected to sweep across the area. The bulk of the storm is projected to impact the region today and Tuesday.
For the white grapes still hanging on the vine, the rain heightens the risk of fungal diseases like botrytis, mildew, and bunch rot taking hold. Winemakers are working diligently to protect their harvest from these threats.
This unexpected turn of weather events underscores the unpredictability and challenges faced by the wine industry, as winemakers adapt and respond to ensure the quality and safety of their precious crop.
