Grape harvest on schedule

Despite a late and wet spring which delayed this year’s grape harvest in the valley, Lisa Cameron, spokesperson for the BC Wine Institute, says things appear to be back on track now.

Cameron says the hot and sunny days we had this summer helped the harvest catch up to where it should be.

However, she notes that longer varieties such as Pinot Noir are still a little behind.

She notes that grapes need a number of light unit and heat unit days.

“Hot and dry weather will ensure all the fruit will reach its potential,” adds Cameron.

She says September’s forecast is looking positive for the grape growing season, which will help move things along.

Cameron notes that depending on the variety will determine when they will be picked.

For instance, she explains that white varieties may be picked as early as September, while some of the others won’t be picked until October.

Cameron says currently our winemakers and viticulturists are working together to ensure a quality crop in the valley.

However she adds that this year’s harvest is expected to be down 15 to 20 per cent from their biggest crop of 2006.