Napa, CA (August 7, 2020) – The 2020 Napa Valley harvest is underway throughout the region according to the Napa Valley Grapegrowers (NVG), with sparkling wine varieties leading the way to the presses. 2020’s growing season bodes well for a landmark harvest.
“Amidst the chaos of the pandemic, the grapes continue to ripen, and grape growers feel the continuity of harvest. It has been a superb growing season with moderate weather; Napa Valley is fortunate, we continue to have beautiful fruit, ready for harvest, time and time again,” said Kendall Hoxsey-Onysko, Business Manager for Yount Mill Vineyards and Napa Wine Company, whose first pick is this coming Saturday, August 8, at her Block House Vineyard in Yountville, “COVID-19 protection is top-of-mind though, and we are committed to enforcing best practice protocols to ensure all employees in the vineyard and winery are safe while harvest is underway.”
The 2020 growing season kicked off with mild spring weather, and in June, the conditions were perfect for uniform fruit set. From June to early August, temperatures were steady and warm, little to no heat spikes, creating ideal conditions for the final stretch. Veraison has continued over an extended period, allowing for balanced fruit development. Weather permitting, growers plan for a steady harvest going into October when thicker-skin grapes like cabernet sauvignon will be picked.
“We’re gearing up to pick white fruit varieties in the next three weeks, with viognier and sauvignon blanc coming in first. Until then, we’re diligently learning best practices for COVID-19 prevention, and readying for a safe harvest in the workplace, all while keeping a close eye on the grapes still on the vine,” noted Courtney Shifflett, NVG member and viticulturist for Duckhorn Wine Company.
At the start of harvest, many in the Napa Valley grape growing community gather at various vineyards for the blessing of the grapes, a longstanding tradition dating back to agrarian times, that gives thanks for the bountiful crop. Although ceremonies will look much smaller this year, the Napa Valley community has much to be thankful for with the 2020 harvest, as it reflects the perseverance of mother nature through chaotic times.
To learn more about the 2020 growing season, watch the NVG 2020 Harvest Press Conference via Zoom in October. More details to follow.
For press inquiries regarding the 2020 harvest, please email NVG at info@napagrowers.org
About Napa Valley Grapegrowers
NVG is a non-profit trade organization that has played a vital role in strengthening Napa Valley’s reputation as a world-class viticultural region for 44 years. Its mission is to preserve and promote Napa Valley’s world-class vineyards. NVG represents 726 Napa County grape growers and associated businesses.
For more information, visit Napa Valley Grapegrowers .
