Grape Expectations

Rows of wine, originally uploaded by Jake Putnam

GRAPE HARVEST UNDERWAY IN CANYON COUNTY

Sunnyslope--Canyon County winemakers says this years grape harvest could be one of the best of the decade. Yields and acreages are up, demand is strong but labor is still a problem. "Most of the grapes will be handled 5 times before harvest," said Ron Bitner. "We're barely getting the workers we need but we'll get by, we always do."

Last weeks surprise Treasure Valley snowstorm that buried Boise missed Sunnyslope and added up to needed rainfall that did little damage but instead helped fatten the grapes according to delighted winemakers.

The havest is now in full swing and will continue for the next two weeks with more and more pickers now coming off the potato and onion harvests to help out.