Sonoma Valley guide
Harvest season in Sonoma Valley: when it happens and what to see
When is harvest?
Timing changes every year. In 2025, Sonoma County Winegrowers said harvest began on schedule in mid-August with grapes for sparkling wine. In 2026 it started much earlier: the Winegrowers reported on July 24 that harvest had begun in what may be the earliest start in the region's history, and on October 19 that harvest was complete.
The 2026 vintage
According to Sonoma County Winegrowers, a warm spring was followed by cold, wet, windy weather at bloom that reduced yields, then a favorable summer. They estimate the 2026 Sonoma County harvest at about 35 to 40 percent lighter than average.
Ringing in the harvest at the Mission
On July 21, 2026, the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance and members of the community rang the bells at Mission San Francisco Solano to mark the first pick of the season, honoring the valley's 201st harvest (Sonoma Index-Tribune). The Mission is part of Sonoma State Historic Park.
What you'll see
Sonoma County Tourism explains that grapes are usually picked in the middle of the night or early morning, when it's cooler, so bright lights in the vineyards after dark are a sign of harvest. At wineries, bins of grapes arrive at the crush pad, are sorted, and then white grapes go to the press while red grapes ferment on their skins. Vineyards are usually gated, so ask wineries about harvest lunches and guided vineyard walks.
Plan a visit
Harvest weekends are busy, so book tastings ahead. Start with our wineries, wine tours and the things to do in Sonoma guide.
Questions
When is grape harvest in Sonoma?
It varies by year. In 2025 it began in mid-August; in 2026 it began in July and was complete by October 19, according to Sonoma County Winegrowers.
Why are grapes picked at night?
Cooler night and early-morning temperatures help grapes stay fresh and spare crews the heat of the day, according to Sonoma County Tourism.
Was the 2026 harvest big or small?
Small: Sonoma County Winegrowers estimate it at about 35 to 40 percent lighter than average.
Sources
Facts in this guide were checked on October 20, 2026 against these sources. Hours, prices and rules change, so confirm with the business or park before you go.
- Sonoma County Winegrowers: Sonoma County Begins One of Its Earliest Winegrape Harvests in Years (July 24, 2026)
- Sonoma County Winegrowers: Historically Early Harvest Sets the Stage for an Exceptional 2026 Vintage (October 19, 2026)
- Sonoma County Tourism: Lifecycle of Wine Grapes and What to See at Each Stage
- Sonoma Index-Tribune: Sonoma Valley marks its 201st harvest (July 28, 2026)
- California State Parks: Sonoma State Historic Park
About this guide
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