Harvest 2010: An Initial Report

 

After a cool spring and summer, the 2010 grape harvest is starting to get under way, about two weeks later than normal. The Yakima Herald Republic reported on September 20 that "The Washington State University Extension Center in Prosser says the overall grape season has been about 14% cooler than average."

 

This year, the first grapes to be harvested are whites: Sauvignon Blanc and Gewurztraminer, with Pinot Gris coming in shortly. Merlot will be the first red to be harvested starting about now (Thursday, Sept. 23) in the Yakima Valley and on Red Mountain. On the Wahluke Slope Merlot is approaching maturity. In the Walla Walla Valley, the Seven Hills Vineyard is about to harvest Merlot. Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are to come in later as the current Brix readings are still in the low 20's.

 

After some rainy days last week, the weather outlook is hopeful. In Walla Walla, the highs are currently in the 70's with partly cloudy mornings. Highs are expected to be in the low 80's over the weekend into early next week. There are similar forecasts for Prosser and Red Mountain. If this can stretch out for another three weeks...

 

Wine growers have been concerned about a harvest like 1999, another cool year that challenged winemakers. That concern seems to be easing a bit, but there remains the possibility of a repetition of last year when frost in mid-October brought the harvest to an abrupt end with a rush to collect and crush the remaining grapes. As one grower stated, this could be the best or the worst harvest yet.

 

For more information, go to Sean Sullivan's Washington Wine Report (www.wawinereport.com).