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The Weather Channel

California fires could put grapes, wines at risk

The Weather Channel · Just In
The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel
Just In

Wildfire smoke drifting over Napa Valley is raising concerns for wine grapes just weeks before harvest, as experts warn even distant fires can leave behind the ashy taste of smoke taint.

Breakdown
  • Wildfires can change the taste of wine by affecting nearby vineyards.
  • Smoke from fires settles on grape skins and can cause smoke-taint in the fruit. 7s
  • Smoke-taint can leave a charred, ashy flavor, sometimes ruining entire harvests. 11s
  • Some wine bottles never reach shelves due to smoke damage. 18s
  • The impact of the Pickett Fire on Napa Valley's vintage is still unknown. 23s
Rural & AgricultureWeather