We have been on a roller coaster ride when it comes to the weather over the past several weeks. This time of year, grape growers are keeping a wary eye on the weather as harvest is well underway.

Inevitably the last days of summer can bring some warm, hot days as we transition into early autumn. As I write this week’s column, a band of tropical moisture has made its way to us, leaving scattered showers along the coast and heavier amounts to the east near Cuyama, causing flash flood warnings.

Just when we got the green light from the winery to start picking after waiting for the lab results for smoke taint in the grapes to come back with a negative result, it rains. Welcome to farming.

We will get going on those vineyards next week, although the forecast is for more rain next week as wel

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