Veraison – the changing of color of the grapes – is underway in eastern Washington. This pictures is of Syrah at Clifton Hill Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope and comes courtesy of Cait Guyette.

Thus far 2015 has been a very warm growing season, considerably warmer than 2014 (see current Growing Degree Days from Washington State University). Throughout the growing season, most markers have been advanced from their historical average dates, in some cases considerably so. The onset of veraison can only mean one thing: harvest is not far off.