Napa Vinyard at Sunrise (© Can Balcioglu | Dreamstime.com)

Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are in short supply in California due to poor weather conditions.

The growing season first suffered from frosts, then hot weather followed by a lack of rain. “Growers and vintners estimate this year's crop in the state could be 20% smaller than in 2007,” according to an article in the Los Angeles Times. The disappointing growing season “comes as demand for domestic wine is growing by 3% to 5% a year and the market for $12-to-$20 wines is increasing by 18%.”

On the bright side, the L.A. Times article says the weak U.S. dollar is helping the industry by bolstering exports and making it harder for foreign winemakers to sell their wine profitably in the United States. Wine constitutes a $19 billion industry for California.

If you’d like to read the L.A. Times article cited above go to: California winemakers brace for smaller supply of grapes