The US wine region of Washington experienced an early harvest in 2016 which gave Walla Walla, Red Mountain and Yakima AVAs (among others) a long growing season. We interview consultant winemaker and agronomist Co Dinn on how this year’s harvest was and how the 2016 vintage looks to be shaping up.
[mepr-hide if=”rule: 2080″]
…
This content is exclusive for Members. Take a look at the introductory packages below to become a Member of 80 Harvests and get unrestricted access to all our content. Thank you for supporting the journey and being part of the 80 Harvests community!
[mepr-group-price-boxes group_id=”2070″]
[/mepr-hide]
[mepr-show if=”rule: 2080″]
Vintage Interview: Co Dinn, consultant agronomist & winemaker Co Dinn Cellars
How was 2016’s vintage compared to recent years?
Quite unusual in that the season started about three weeks early due to warm spring weather. Interestingly though, it was not a hot year. So we ended up with a long season but not a hot season, which due to its length allowed for early and even ripening.
What were the greatest challenges for the vineyard and winemaking in 2016?
For me being ready to go three weeks early was the challenge. August is busy enough without also starting harvest! We have had a bit of rain in October but with the generally early harvest it was possible to bring in pretty much everything before the wet weather set in.
Which wines and varieties do you think will be exceptional (or above average) in 2016?
I am focusing primarily on reds (with some Chardonnay) and am happy with everything. Color is very good and natural acidity is consistently good across varieties. Very excited about Syrah and Merlot from the vintage due to moderate growing conditions.
Which varieties suffered most (will be below average) in 2016?
Late ripening varieties left hanging through the wet weather due to higher yields may suffer. Conservative cropping for those varietals (and subsequent earlier harvest) paid dividends this year.
Can you characterise the style of 2016 compared to recent vintages?
In general, great colour, not as tannic as 2014 or 2015 (which were hot years). Good acid balance and healthy pH levels. So for example Syrah is brighter and less heavy than 2015: imagine blackberry cobbler versus a chocolate torte…
[/mepr-show]
