Californian rain could mean a rotten harvest

Producers in California are worried that rainstorms in early October could affect the quality of the crop resulting in under-ripe grapes lacking concentration of fruit. According to some 2011 is one of the most challenging years they have faced.

Compared to much of Europe, where harvest was two - four weeks earlier than usual, California is looking at a late harvest with time running out to allow grapes to ripen properly. They had a late spring and mild summer, but many hoped that if it did not rain then harvesting could be left until late October or early November. However, storms hit Napa Valley, Sonoma and Russian River Valley hard while other regions escaped.

Growers have had to decide whether to wait and risk some of the grapes rotting or pick a healthier but slightly under ripe crop. But time is now running out as days grow shorter. Chaptalisation is not allowed in Caifornia but the addition of grape concentrate is and it is expected to be used quite liberally this year.