One thing that many wine enthusiasts pays attention to is the grape harvest each and every year. When conditions are optimal for producing the best grapes for making into wine the plants flourish the harvest is at its best. During years when the temperature is not right or the moisture levels are too low this is reflected in a poor harvest.
So far most of the vineyards on the west coast of the United States are reporting excellent yields and this will mean a good year for wine despite the lagging economy. As the truckloads of grapes are heading out of the field and to the crushing facilities many vineyards are hosting fall harvest tastings and events to encourage visitors to come to their facilities. These are excellent opportunities to bring along your wine bags and buy new wines to bring home to your cellar.
The reports are good so far that not only are there plenty of grapes the quality is at a premium. This will result in some excellent wines that will have full flavor but not be so expensive that only the rich and elite can purchase them. Get out and enjoy the fall harvest in your particular area.