Outlook is “epic” for Vintage 2021 despite the ongoing drought. Below are the key takeaways on the current harvest from the leading winemakers and experts in the Paso Robles AVA – and access to direct quotes, photos and videos.
Sept. 7, 2020 (Paso Robles, Calif.) – Solterra Strategies, a boutique public relations firm representing wineries, tourism destinations and marquee wine events throughout the Central Coast, is pleased to share this harvest status report from top winemakers and industry experts working throughout the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area (AVA).
Overall, thanks to a relatively temperate growing season, the timing of the 2021 harvest is about week or two later than in recent years, with most pulling the first of the core white wine grapes in late August or last week.
While the region has seen smoke from wildfires up north, it has not affected the vineyards in Paso Robles, report growers and experts in Paso Robles.
The ongoing drought conditions (this growing season saw just two significant rain days this winter) are presenting growers with a double-edged sword of sorts. The good news is the dry conditions this year are creating smaller, more concentrated grapes, which is ideal for winemaking. While this can lower overall yields, it produces more flavors, bolder colors, strong acidity and manageable tannins. These conditions have winemakers feeling quite bullish for Vintage 2021, with many predicting an epic year for quality.
However, many winemakers expressed concerns for the next vintage: Another year of scant rain could begin to pose problems for winegrowing.
Many winemakers say labor and staffing shortages have been major challenges this year, a phenomenon that has beleaguered many industries across the country.
