USA

Sonoma County

1965
89Grapeyear
excellent Configuration

Sonoma County 1965 Vintage Report

Defining the 1965 vintage in Sonoma County requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.

Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident.

Summer conditions were balanced, oscillating between warm spells and refreshing intervals that kept the ripening on a steady track. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (13.5°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.

The season concluded with a pristine harvest window. With negligible rain (2mm), pickers could wait for perfect phenolic maturity, harvesting each block at its absolute zenith.

**Style:** Classically proportioned wines with good balance and terroir expression.

About Sonoma County

Napa's laid-back neighbor, Sonoma is a vast region of microclimates. It excels in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the coast, as well as robust Zinfandels and Cabernets from its warmer valleys.

Climatic Blueprint

Growing Degree Days (GDD)

1658

Total Rainfall

130 mm

Sunshine Hours

2519 hrs

Diurnal Shift

13.5 °C

Frost Days

0 days

Average Temperature

18 °C

Historical Context (6 Years)

Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.

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