Zinfandel bunches are tightening but the crop doesn't look to be above average. The Rubired crop seems to be shrinking the more we observe it, and is thought at this point to be average or below. Sugars are progressing quickly with the lighter crops than last year and the weather patterns we've had. It is likely some early grapes will be crushed during the first week of August. Some sunburn has been observed as the tender grape skins were not quite conditioned for the extreme heat we've experienced in the area.
Berries are larger than pea size, with veraison right around the corner.
The Thompson crop is felt, at this point, to be an average crop. Bunch sizes are not impressive though which could potentially lead to a light crop, but time will tell. The set period seems to have gone well, with reports of very little shatter. Most other varieties look good in terms of crop size with none being reported as being below average at this point. Chardonnay, unfortunately, looks above average.