2019 Kincade Wildfire Comment

SAN FRANCISCO — The Kincade wildfire that started on Oct. 23 is concentrated in the northeastern part of Sonoma County in a non-residential rural area comprised mainly of grass and brushland. The situation is fluid, but at this writing, the vast majority of Sonoma County vineyards and wineries have not been significantly affected by the fires. Vineyards are serving as firebreaks due to their high moisture content, helping to save structures and homes, although there have been some individual losses.

Some Sonoma County destinations, including hotels, wineries and restaurants, are impacted and others are open, particularly in southern Sonoma County. Visitors who have plans to travel to the area should contact businesses directly to check status and hours.

We expect no impact on the overall statewide 2019 winegrape harvest. Wineries in the North Coast and around the state are finished or were in the homestretch of the harvest prior to the fires. The 2019 California growing season presented vintners with winegrapes of high quality and a large harvest, slightly smaller than 2018. The total Sonoma County harvest accounts for 6% of California’s winegrape tonnage.

In addition to buying Sonoma County wines, those wishing to support the industry can contribute to community relief and rebuilding efforts by visiting: https://sonomawine.com/foundation or http://www.scggf.org.

Wine Institute extends its thoughts to all the people and communities impacted by the recent wildfires.