The Dog Days of summer originated from ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians who believed the rise of Sirius, the brightest star in the sky (excluding our Sun), brought combined heat in the mid- to late-summer months of July and August. Sirius, also named the Dog Star, translated to “scorching” in ancient Greek. This time was thought to bring drought, bad luck, and unrest by the ancient Greeks and Romans, but interestingly, the Egyptians, using their wisdom and experience, viewed this time as a way to leverage beneficial outcomes.

Today, the wine industry faces its own set of challenges with the well documented oversupply and slow consumer sales in these “Dog Days” leading up to harvest. The scorching heat has impacted vine development statewide, and many sellers at the moment are feeling similar unrest as those from thousands of years ago.

This newsletter will delve into the current state of the markets, exploring both the challenges and the unique opportunities that can be had leading up to harvest. Read More