By Erica Lundquist, Ph.D.
LCWC Viticulturist

The warm temperatures in March and April encouraged early budbreak throughout Lake County, and the timing of bloom and veraison were also 10-14 days ahead of normal. Temperatures remained ideal throughout the county with no significant heat spikes and very few days with highs above 100 oF. Growers and wineries reported no problems with powdery mildew despite temperatures that were conducive to powdery mildew growth.

Harvest time lasted longer than usual in Lake County with Sauvignon Blanc harvest starting in August, and some red winegrapes harvested in October. The early harvest of Sauvignon Blanc was due both to a light crop, from 20-50% down on mature vineyards, and because good flavors and sugar to acid balance occurred at lower sugar levels than usual. While yields of red varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah were light to average on mature vines, overall tonnage of these grapes is unlikely to decrease due to the rising yields of recently planted vineyards. There were reports of wineries requesting extended hang time, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon, either due to winery capacity limitations or for continuing flavor development. Continued mild fall weather conditions helped to maintain these grapes in excellent condition with little shrivel or weight loss.

The winegrape market remained tough for Lake County growers. Although very little fruit went unsold in 2004, some winegrapes sold at the low prices seen in 2003.

There were several new developments in the Lake County winegrape industry. The Red Hills area of Lake County was officially designated as an American Viticultural Area in September of this year. The Red Hills AVA is a mountainous area with elevations from 1,400 to 3,000 feet above sea level. Over 90% of the soils in the Red Hills are of volcanic origin and high in gravel content. These well-drained soils are strikingly red in color. This new appellation will soon be found on several new wine labels for the 2004 vintage.

On the north shore of Clear Lake, three new wineries opened. Tulip Hill Winery and Ceago del Lago opened in Nice, and Shannon Ridge Winery opened a tasting room in Clearlake Oaks. On the south side of the lake, Cougar's Leap Winery is now open by appointment.