California has had one of its longest, wettest and coolest growing seasons this century, with some regions still harvesting. Yet producers are reporting excellent quality, even as some are feeling the effects of the global grape glut. Above, harvest at Rudd Estate, by Ryan Anderson.
Growers and producers don’t seem to have any doubt that California’s 2023 vintage will turn out superb-quality wines. But consumers who expect plushness and density from the Golden State may be in for a surprise. Napa, Sonoma, Lodi and Paso Robles have had a cool year, and Santa Barbara and Santa Maria have had one...