The 2026 Texas High Plains growing season came with a few challenges for our growers. An uncharacteristically warm March started a rapid push after budbreak pursued by an early April frost, which reduced both growth and fruit yield. A little rainfall and mild late spring provided some good rebounding for the vines despite the yields already being affected. This summer was the 4th hottest summer on record, lending to a shortened ripening period from veraison and many varieties ripening at the same time. However, the reduced yields helped concentrate flavors and led to great fruit development despite the heat.