Issue link: http://winesandvines.uberflip.com/i/766392
118 WINES&VINES January 2017 VINTAGE 2016 AMADOR, CALAVERAS, EL DORADO AND TUOLUMNE COUNTIES Lynn Wunderlich Viticulture farm advisor University of California Cooperative Extension Terrific fruit quality with average to above-average yields reported for most Sierra Foothills varieties after a challenging season managing strong canopies developed from ample winter rainfall. Zinfandel was average to above average in yield and quality with juicy berries and little shrivel. Grenache suffered some shatter, and some growers reported lighter crops in Petite Sirah and Barbera. Whites varied in yield—Chardonnay was heavy to average; Rousanne was a little light; Vermentino was heavy. Spring bloom was drawn out by erratic weather (warm then cool) in some locations. Several long sum- mer heat spikes of temperatures 95° F and above fizzled out by the beginning of harvest in late August. 2016 was about a week earlier to harvest than "average," although less early by about a week than last year. Warm to mild tempera- tures and dry weather in Septem- ber helped harvest run smoothly, with no rot problems and fantastic flavor development. Powdery mildew was an issue for many this year due to spring show- ers and large canopies that re- quired more shoot thinning in order for spray applications to be effec- tive. Six or more mildew applica- tions were not uncommon. Growers are keenly aware of grapevine red blotch-associated virus, and many are now testing. Winter rainfall quelled the four-year drought in most locations. Labor continues to be a concern. Italian varieties such as Nebbiolo, Vermentino and of course Barbera hold interest for both growers and winemakers. Gamay acreage is ex- panding to meet growing demand. FRESNO COUNTY George Zhuang Viticulture farm advisor University of California Cooperative Extension In 2016 the overall yield of grapes in Fresno was down approximately 10% to 15% from last year. The fruit quality overall was great in 2016 as compared to poor fruit quality the previous year. Early ripening of fruit was re- ported with the occurrence of heat waves. We had good amounts of precipitation after harvest, and that was desirable for the area. Increasing disease and pest pres- sure from vine mealybug and pow- dery mildew were concerns for the region in 2016. Grape prices in Fresno depended on several factors like varieties, contracts and winery demands. Overall, prices were stable or slightly improved, although the variation between varieties could be significant. The interest in me- chanical pruning and canopy man- agement increased with more and more concern about labor chal- lenges in this region. Water shortages and quality will continue to be challenges in some areas of Fresno, particularly on the west side. Labor challenges will CALIFORNIA How would you characterize the average quality of the 2016 harvest based on the grapes you grew, purchased or received? GRAPE QUALITY Good Excellent Poor Fair How would you describe the average yields of the 2016 harvest based on the grapes you grew, purchased or received? Somewhat reduced 0% - Record crop Little to no crop Average CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA GRAPE YIELD Above average Terra d'Oro winery processes grapes in Amador County, Calif.