The 2023 wine harvest is underway across the central coast

Record rains this spring and a cool summer resulted in the latest harvest start in recent memory. But, the longer hang time — which allows flavors to develop — has winemakers from Paso Robles to Ventura County feeling bullish on Vintage 2023.

Central Coast winemakers and growers are reporting 2023 marks the latest harvest start time in decades, with major picks occurring an average of five weeks later than normal. The springtime's cold temperatures and record rains delayed the grapes from "setting" in the spring, and the summer's cooler-than-normal temperatures significantly slowed ripening.

Martín Ramírez, Head Viticulturist at Ojai Mountain in Ventura County, notes: "Our vineyard is exceptionally lush this year, and all this vigor should benefit next year's berries. On a positive note, lowering yields during the first seven years of growth can benefit a young vineyard like ours in the long run."

Despite lower-than-forecasted yields and a delayed start, the longer hang time has winemakers excited about 2023's potential. A gradual and longer ripening allows grapes to retain acid and develop strong and often complex flavors.