Harvest season is currently flourishing across the Pacific Northwest, from Oregon’s Willamette Valley to Washington State’s Columbia Valley, as winemakers work to wrap up the 2025 vintage.
In Oregon, winemaker John Grochau, who produces wine at GC Wines, noted that the current year’s vintage may resemble the previous one. He described the growing season as warm, dry, and steady, leading to small grapes with thick skins. As the harvest progresses, Grochau emphasized the importance of timing, with the first pick occurring on September 5, followed by consistent harvesting of varieties like Pinot Noir. The arrival of cool weather and rain in early September helped balance the fruit’s sugar levels.
In Washington, winemaker Seth Kitzke of Upsidedown Wine reported equally promising conditions. The growing season has been characterized by early warmth and dry weather, allowing grapes to develop optimal flavors early on. While the weather has been consistent, Kitzke noted some unexpected low yields in certain varietals like Syrah, deviating from typical picking schedules. Overall, he expressed optimism about the flavor development across the grapes.
As the 2025 harvest continues, both regions showcase the unique contrasts of their climates, leading to diverse wine styles. The Willamette Valley leans towards cooler climate grapes such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while the arid Columbia Valley supports a wider range of varietals.