Harvest Update
The 2026 growing season moved at a quicker pace than we have experienced in recent years. A relatively dry winter meant irrigation began earlier than usual, and warm, steady conditions advanced the vineyards by nearly two weeks. As harvest approached, our attention shifted from watching the fruit develop in the vineyard to preparing the cellar for its arrival.
The first grapes of the season are now safely in the cellar, and this year we are especially excited to be working with two new varieties: Vermentino from Mendocino County and Albariño from Yolo County. This is our first time producing wines from either variety, giving us an exciting opportunity to explore two distinctive grapes grown in two very different regions of Northern California.
Yolo County Albariño came in first and we are excited to work with this variety for the first time!
Mendocino County’s cooler coastal influence and varied terrain provide an excellent environment for Vermentino. Originally associated with the Mediterranean, Vermentino is known for its bright citrus and green-fruit character, subtle herbal qualities, and refreshing mineral finish. The fruit arrived with beautiful freshness and plenty of personality. Our goal in the cellar is to preserve those lively aromatics while developing enough texture to give the finished wine depth and balance.
The Vermentino came in about three weeks after the Albariño!
Yolo County offers a very different growing environment. Located in the Sacramento River Delta, the region experiences warm, sunny days followed by cooling afternoon breezes that travel through the Delta. These conditions allow Albariño to develop ripe fruit flavors while maintaining the vibrant acidity that defines the variety. Albariño is best known for its lime, grapefruit, stone-fruit, floral, and sometimes slightly saline characteristics.
Although the two varieties share a natural brightness and freshness, they express themselves quite differently. The Vermentino is showing a more textured, citrus-driven, and subtly herbal profile, while the Albariño is especially aromatic, crisp, and energetic. Working with them side by side gives us the chance to highlight both their similarities and the distinct influence of their growing regions.
Once the grapes arrived at the winery, they were pressed gently to separate the juice from the skins and seeds. The juice was then chilled and allowed to settle so that heavier solids could fall to the bottom of the tank. After settling, the clean juice was transferred into another tank and prepared for fermentation. Careful handling at this stage is essential for protecting the delicate aromas and fresh flavors of both varieties.
Vermentino Juice coming straight out of the press, it tastes delicious!
As fermentation begins, we will closely monitor temperature, sugar levels, aromas, and flavor development. Cool fermentation temperatures help preserve the fresh fruit and floral qualities that make these varieties so appealing. While laboratory measurements guide our decisions, tasting remains just as important. Each day gives us a clearer picture of how the wines are developing and what they may eventually become.
There is always something special about the first fruit arriving at the winery, but working with two new varieties makes the beginning of this harvest especially exciting. The Mendocino County Vermentino and Yolo County Albariño are already showing distinct personalities, and we look forward to sharing their progress as the wines continue to develop.
Each vintage is shaped by its growing season, vineyard, variety, and region, and 2026 is already giving us an exciting new story to tell. On behalf of everyone at River Road Family Vineyards and Winery, thank you for your continued support, and we wish you good health!
