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The 2009 grape harvest in Napa Valley is full of hope and promise according to the people who are closest to the vines, Napa Valley Grape Growers. Themes of sustainability, balance, and long standing relationships with consumers, wineries, employees and neighbors were spotlighted throughout the afternoon at the 5th Annual Napa Valley Grape Growers Harvest Press Conference. The press conference was held under the shade of a walnut orchard at Trefethen Vineyards near a newly revitalized Coho Salmon habitat showing their commitment beyond the vines to the entire vineyard ecosystem. Spokespeople Jon Ruel, director of Viticulture and Winemaking for Trefethen Family Vineyards; Matt Taylor, winegrower for Araujo Estate Wines; Michael Beaulac, general manager and winemaker for Pine Ridge Vineyards; and Remi Cohen, vice president of operations for Juliana Vineyards and Merryvale gave their insights from vineyard sites spread throughout Napa Valley including sites in Carneros, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena, Calistoga and Stags Leap District. Early indications and a mild weather pattern has given the growers a much needed break on various fronts. This year has had the benefit of late Spring rain making more water available to the grapevines during a crucial period in their development. "We had over an inch of rain during the month of May in most of Napa County" said Remi Cohen. "Minimizing the amount of irrigation in the vineyard is a critical concern for us." This, along with a very mild frost season in comparison to last year and cooler temperatures, created conditions for an average to slightly below average year in terms of yields. Lush green canopies protected grapes from sun damage while still allowing Veraison (red grapes color change from green to red and softening in white wine varietals) to occur quickly due to consecutive hot days in late July and early August. The grape growers have also created enhanced value-added experiences throughout Napa to encourage people to come and experience harvest for themselves. Exclusive wine and food pairings, wine club lunches and other events have been planned along with Napa Valley Grape Growers Annual Harvest Stomp on August 29, 2009 at Gamble Ranch State Farm Oakville. For more information please visit
http://www.harveststomp.com In short, looks like it is going to be a good vintage in Napa. Cheers! |
