I have conducted lab analyses for about 16 wineries in the region under our secondary business, Harmony Wine Services.  During September and October, I am asked to analyze grapes for their pH, % sugar or brix, and total acidity.  Coupled with their observations in the vineyard and tasting, the analyses help winemakers to decide when to harvest their grapes.  Because this information is vital, I supply the winemakers with the test results on the same day I receive the grapes.

This year, with the summer having long hot spells, I anticipate that some grapes will be lower in their acidity due to the loss of acids through respiration and that pH will be higher.  In other cases where the vineyard may have a northern exposure, the chemistry of the grapes may have a perfect balance of pH and acidity.

Through the end of harvest (October), I may find myself at the winery everday.