SEATTLE (April 22, 2026)—Winegrowers in Washington are reporting ultra-high quality winegrapes in 2025, after a textbook harvest saw sustained sunshine and extended hang time.
“In terms of weather and growing conditions, growers are telling us it was one of the best harvest seasons in recent memory,” said Kristina Kelley, Executive Director of the Washington State Wine Commission.
Winter was wet with mild temperatures, and growers saw bud break just a little earlier compared to historical averages. Spring was relatively dry, and summer was warm—but not too hot. Harvest began the third week of August, and September temperatures were above average. As temperatures cooled in late September into October, it provided continued hang time for those who wanted it.
“The relative ease of harvest was welcome, as we continue to see a decline due to the downturn of the global wine industry,” Kelley said.
The Washington State Wine Commission’s annual Grape Production Report showed 108,000 tons of winegrapes were harvested in 2025, down 28% year over year. The report is compiled from information provided by all Washington State wineries and growers.
Cabernet Sauvignon remained steady as Washington’s top variety at 24,063 tons or 22% of total production. Chardonnay was second at 17,911 tons or 17% of the total, followed by Riesling, Syrah, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris. These top seven varieties altogether equated to 85% of the crop. Red and white varieties were nearly equal in terms of tonnage.
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About the Washington State Wine Commission:
The Washington State Wine Commission (WSWC) represents every licensed winery and wine grape grower in Washington State. Guided by an appointed board, the mission of the WSWC is to drive growth of Washington Wine through Marketing, Communications, and Viticulture & Enology Research. Funded almost entirely by the industry through assessments based on grape and wine sales, WSWC is a state government agency, established by the legislature in 1987. To learn more, visit www.washingtonwine.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Bradshaw, Communications Director
(206) 495-5844 / hbradshaw@washingtonwine.org
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