A month in wine

All the important issues affecting you across the globe, compiled by Chris Mercer

- Chris Mercer

Californians stoic despite latest fire losses

A fierce wildfire has damaged several historic Napa Valley wineries and part of the Meadowood luxury resort, as well as destroyed homes, but winemakers have vowed to rebuild.

Thousands were evacuated across parts of Napa and Sonoma Counties and more than 1,500 structures were destroyed as firefighters battled the fast-spreading Glass Fire that ignited in California on 27 September.

Several wineries reported damage. Cain Vineyard in Spring Mountain District lost its winery alongside the homes of three families living at the estate.

Howell Mountain’s Burgess Cellars saw its winery destroyed, but new owners the Lawrence family (Heitz Cellar) and Carlton McCoy Jr said vineyards were mainly spared. ‘We are incredibly grateful that our team members are unharmed and thankful for the wonderful firefighters,’ said McCoy Jr.

LVMH-owned Newton Vineyard reported damage to its winery and vineyards, but said some vines remained intact and a building holding bottled vintages survived.

Meadowood Napa Valley lost its clubhouse, including the luxury resort’s three-star Michelin restaurant, but the lower part of the estate, including the spa and guest cottages there, escaped damage, a spokesperson said.

Other wineries reported near-misses, while many across the wine community expressed heartfelt thanks to fire crews, and relief that team members were unharmed.