We had a fairly mild winter, a moderate frost season, a roller coaster June with weather swings of heat and rain causing a fair amount of shatter. October saw our first significant storm of the season with measurable rainfall. The quality of the grapes has been exceptional -flavorful whites, deeply colored reds, good acid levels throughout, and almost no rot in the fruit. The crop levels are generally in the low average range, which contributes to the quality and speed of this year's harvest. Gerald Ployez, winemaker, Ployez Winery , comments on Lake County - Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are coming in very clean, with nice sugar content and showing promise for the future.
Quality is above average.
The Sauvignon Blanc will not be as grassy as one might expect, and displays very powerful floral aromas. The crop was a little light, but color and quality are very good. I am excited about the Mendocino Chardonnay this year. The Merlot is perfectly ripe, aromatic, and shows great potential. Overall, the quality is very good.