Grapes Benefit from Dry Conditions

Farmers in the Valley are still struggling from a lack of rain this year, but it isn't bad news for local vineyards.

While many farmers in the Valley are praying for more rain, wine makers like John Higgs of Barren Ridge Vineyards say less is better.

Higgs says, "It makes it more difficult to grow grapes in Virginia compared to California, which doesn't traditionally have very much rain."

He says dry weather has made it a great year for the grape.

"It keeps down the fungus that grows in the vineyards," explains Higgs. "It allows us to get a lot more sun so the fruit matures better."

Higgs says too much rain can dilute the grape harvest, making the fruit less tasty. This year he expects some great batches.

He adds, "The Shenandoah Valley area is going to be unique in producing some of the best wines in the state, I believe."

While he is happy about the dry weather, Higgs says he sympathizes will local farmers.

He says, "My father was an apple grower and he used to say, 'There is never good weather for farming.' There is always something wrong."

After a strong year and a half for the grape, Higgs also says he doesn't expect the dry conditions to continue for too much longer.

He adds, "We will have wet seasons and dry seasons. We are just lucky to be in one that is dryer than our history dictates."

Virginia ranks eighth in the country in grape production and is host to over 250 vineyards and wineries.