Winemakers in British Columbia are reportedly “excited” about the size and quality of the harvest in the western Canadian province.
The harvest began in late August for those grapes destined for sparkling wine, two weeks later than in other years after a long, moderate growing season.
Harvesting of white varieties then began in early September and the last of the reds are still being gathered in.
BC experienced an early budbreak and May in Summerland and Osoyoos could well be the hottest on record.
More moderate temperatures returned in August which stopped the ripening galloping away and allowed for flavour development and means that those later ripening reds have been left a little longer to reach full maturity.
A statement from Wines of British Columbia said: “After a warm start to the season, winemakers were glad to see things slow down and cooler days and evenings extend the growing season allowing excellent flavour development coupled with retaining the trademark BC freshness and acidity. Wineries are excited about both the size and quality of the 2018 harvest.”
