LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Harvest season for grapes is usually in October, but weather conditions and a drop in alcohol sales have changed that for local farmers this year.
Steve Newsom, owner of English Newsom Cellars, said dry weather and late rain led to harvest happening in September rather than October.
“And it was a tough challenge all year long,” Newsom said. “It felt like every turn we had, we had the weather that we wish would have gone a different direction, but we have, that’s one thing we have no control over.”
Sales decline affects revenue
Newsom also said a drop in alcohol sales has affected the winery’s revenue.
“And we read and we look what’s going on because they’re telling us it’s some of the lowest sales in 20 years,” Newsom said. “We’ve heard as much as 20% down in general.”
Newsom said during seasons like this, it is more important to support local businesses. He said everything the winery does happens on the South Plains, from the seed to the glass.
“So, when you’re making decisions on am I going to drink a Texas wine versus something else, you’re not giving up quality,” Newsom said. “What you’re giving up possibly is a little bit of history.”
Family-owned farms face challenges
Newsom said he works to maintain quality for Texas consumers and said Texas loyalty is unmatched.
“And we’re out here with family-owned farms that aren’t corporate and people have made huge investments in vineyards,” Newsom said. “And with the reduction overall in alcohol consumption, it’s been a huge challenge.”
Newsom said these family-owned businesses face the same challenges as any other business, and it takes a community to solve them.
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