/PRNewswire/ - The 2016 California winegrape harvest was early, with a mostly normal yield of exceptional quality fruit throughout the state.  A relatively even growing season followed welcome winter rains that helped to alleviate the drought.  "It's been a good season so far—the grapes are in great condition, showcasing spectacular flavors," said Randy Ullom, winemaster at Kendall-Jackson Wines, with vineyards in Sonoma County and statewide.  Cathy Corison, owner/winemaker at Corison Winery in Napa Valley is equally pleased: "2016 was early, small and delicious.  The entire ripening season enjoyed cooler than average daytime highs and cold nights—perfect for inky, complex wines. Measured in pace, it was also easy on the winemakers."

The overall state crop was estimated to be near the historical average of 3.9 million tons by the California Department of Food and Agriculture in August 2016.