Suisun Valley: High Hopes for Quality
The Suisun Valley, known for its unique microclimate and diverse grape varieties, is anticipating a high-quality harvest for 2024. Cooler spring temperatures have extended the growing season, allowing grapes to develop rich flavors and balanced acidity. Winemakers in Suisun Valley are particularly optimistic about their Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah varieties, which are showing exceptional promise this year. Despite some challenges with water availability, innovative irrigation techniques have helped maintain vine health and grape quality.
Lodi: Resilience Amidst Challenges
Lodi, a region responsible for approximately 20% of California's wine grape production, faces a challenging year but remains resilient. While labor availability persists, the quality of grapes has not been compromised. Stuart Spencer, executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, notes that despite market pressures, the growers have adapted by focusing on sustainable practices (LODI RULES) and optimizing production. Lodi’s Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon are expected to be standout varieties this year, benefiting from the region's hot days and cool nights which enhance flavor development.
Central Valley: A Season of Complexity
The Central Valley, a crucial hub for California’s wine production, is experiencing a complex season. Jeff Bitter, president of Allied Grape Growers, highlights that the quality of the grapes remains high. Varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc and Teroldego are showing excellent potential, with growers utilizing advanced viticultural practices to ensure quality. The focus has been on maintaining vine health and optimizing water use amidst ongoing drought conditions.
The quality of this year’s harvest is promising, with particular highlights in key grape varieties that wine enthusiasts can look forward to enjoying. We are looking forward to bringing you the best of what California wine grape harvest has to offer.
(notes about the Washington State harvest coming soon…)
Stay tuned for more updates as the harvest progresses and wineries begin the exciting process of turning these quality grapes into exceptional wines.
We bring in juices from all over the world! Below is information regarding our juices and their availability this fall.
California Fresh Juice – We source premium California juice from all over the state. Winemaking juices are a great resource. You can make great wine without bulky equipment. Our fresh juices are ready to ferment when you get home. They have native yeast in them from the grape skins. You can let the native fermentation take place or you can inoculate with your preferred yeast. Either way, you will have a delicious wine that is ready to drink sooner than later. *We always suggest adding yeast because of how long the juice traveled.
California Fresco Juice- The difference between the Fresco Juices and the Fresh Juices is that the Fresco Juices are inoculated with yeast, enzymes, and other “seasonings” that help the wines have a successful fermentation, better color, aromas, tannic structure, and mouthfeel. We call it the “set and forget” juice. It is a great product that produces high-end results.
Italian Fresh Juice- We source premium juices from Puglia and other regions of Italy. These juices create wines that resemble that of the old country. Wines full of flavor and history! They have native yeast in them from the grape skins. You can let the native fermentation take place or you can inoculate with your preferred yeast. *We always suggest adding your own yeast because of how long the juice traveled.
Italian Fresco Juice- The difference between Fresco Juices and Fresh Juices is that the Fresco Juices are inoculated with yeast, enzymes, and other “seasonings” that help the wines have a successful fermentation, better color, aromas, tannic structure, and mouthfeel. We call it the “set and forget” juice. It is a great product that produces high-end results.
NY State – Our NY State portfolio offers hybrid winemaking juices in 5-gallon, 60-gallon, and 275-gallon sizes. Due to this season’s growing conditions, we might not have as many varieties available. Please email or call Christina if you are interested in these juices. (cmusto@juicegrape.com)
To keep up to date on harvest dates check in with us via sales@juicegrape.com or call us at 877-812-1137, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube, or check out the Harvest Tracker and Winemaker Blog on our website- juicegrape.com.
Winemaker Hours:
One of our on-staff Winemakers -Sam Lee will be in the store and available for questions on Tuesdays and Fridays as of August 13th from 8:00AM-2:00PM. If you want to speak to a winemaker in person, make sure to stop by and see Sam! You can also email him at slee@juicegrape.com.
Cheers!
Christina & The Musto Crush Crew
Musto Wine Grape Co. / WinemakingInstructions.com
cmusto@juicegrape.com