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Cook Vineyard Weekly Newsletter 8.20.12

Most of the vineyards in Sonoma are ripening with this great weather. So far Vintage 2012 has been picture perfect for growing wine grapes in Sonoma. Great years like these create a balanced vine, which in return create quality grapes.

Every year normally has a weather event that affects our industry. Last year we had the cool summer that delayed our harvest and the year before we had the June rains that caused a low crop yield and the record heat in the fall that sun burned the crop.

 Even though not normal weather events affect the vines themselves, they cause other issues. One of the main issues are some insects thrive in conditions that others may not. This can cause an unbalance in nature where an insect’s predator may not be plentiful. This allowing an infestation of the other insect. So far this year’s weather has not caused any unbalances in nature.

So what can happen that would affect us this season?

We are almost through the season. The grape clusters are through veraison (turned color). So now we need the weather to continue to be around the 80’s for the next two months. Any rain or hot temperatures over 100 degrees would be a concern. It’s too early to tell, but all signs are pointing for a healthy

If anyone wants to visit us in the vineyards to learn more about the world of viticulture, please call us at 707.490.8921. Also check our website  www.cvmgrapes.com.