As of this writing (10 am, Wednesday, September 18) it is sunny with some clouds on the horizon here in Walla Walla. It has cooled down considerably since the beginning of the month. The forecast for the rest of the month is for highs in the mid 70's, cooling down to the 60's at the end of the month. These temperatures are slightly below average for this time of year, indicating a slowing down of the maturation of the grapes. Not much rain is forecast which should help. Growers are looking at picking to continue well into October.

Harvest is under way here and around the Northwest. On the warmer Red Mountain, Syrah has been picked and harvesting Cabernet is getting under way. Much of the white grapes have been picked. Woodward Canyon has brought in its Estate and Celilo Chardonnay. Sleight of Hand has brought in French Creek Chardonnay and Stoney Vine Syrah. On Horse Heaven Hills, Milo May reports "Discovery vineyard Cab hanging to more fully develop the flavors that will make this vintage a great one." One vineyard climatologist has called the 2019 harvest "slow and steady." More later!