Napa Valley Grapegrowers (NVG) announced the start of the 2019 harvest season in Napa Valley in August, saying “average crop size and spectacular quality” is anticipated. As is traditionally the case, harvest typically begins with the sparkling wine producers, including Rodgers Vineyard picking Pinot Noir for Mumm Napa Valley. Throughout Napa Valley, most white varieties will be harvested through the end of August, while the Cabernet Sauvignon harvest will likely begin mid-September. NVG President Paul Goldberg, who is also president of Bettinelli Vineyards, said, “The very mild, early-season temperatures have led to an incredible growing season.” Heavy rains in March and April cultivated robust cover crops, which organically enriched the soil with an abundance of nutrients. Fruit set was “right on course” during the spring for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. With more rain in May, followed by a heat spike in June, the rest of summer was moderate, with veraison “beautiful and even,” according to Goldberg.