Comparison of Wine Areas

Clark County shares climate and soil characteristics of Bordeaux and Burgundy in France, but generally has a drier ripening and harvest period. We have more annual rainfall, but it rains primarily from November thru March, leaving us a virtual desert from June thru August, and often thru September, as well. The chart below gives comparative climate data for major premium winegrowing areas in the world. The key factors are the mean summer temperature and rainfall during the harvest month. The average mean summer temperature encourages ripening of the fruit, while too much rain in the harvest month can encourage molds and mildews. Grapes require a minimum rainfall of about 20 inches, or else irrigation may be required. It is best if rainfall is not excessive during the ripening and harvest months.