The first signs of the wine grape growing season have appeared in regional vineyards, about two weeks ahead of the average start of the season.

Sagemoor Vineyard in the White Bluffs appellation north of Pasco reported bud break on its chardonnay, grenache and viognier vines on March 21, according to Northwest Wine Report. In the Walla Walla Valley, Yellowhawk Vineyard reported bud break on its cabernet franc vines and Windrow Vineyard on nebbiolo vines on March 23. Shaw Vineyards saw bud break on March 24 on merlot at Quintessence Vineyard.

Bud break is the first sign of grapevines beginning their spring growth, as dormant buds begin to reveal green tips as the start of new shoots. Recent abnormally warm weather may have pushed vines toward bud break sooner than usual.

Historically bud break occurs close to April 2 on average, according to Northwest Wine Report. While occurring early this year, it is far from the record March 15 bud break recorded in 2015. An earlier bud break can put vines at greater risk of frost damage as cold weather is still possible. 

“Some areas of Eastern Washington are forecasting temperatures in the mid to low 30s later this week, so expect wind machines to be on in lower lying areas,” wrote Northwest Wine Report.