The mild, rainy spring seems to have been good for local grape vines. Sometimes springtime cold snaps can set back grape production and even affect the taste of the grapes. In fact, according to research conducted at UNR (UNR has its own
experimental vineyard), a single day of springtime freezing weather can harm and even kill young, unestablished plants that have begun their season's growth. Once established, though, cold snaps don't usually kill the plants, but can still have an effect upon the season's production.
The research from UNR concludes that Reno (and Fallon) show great potential for growing wine grapes, especially with certain drought resistant varieties. Concerning production, the UNR study found that Chardonnay grapes had the highest yield due to less winter die-back, although Chardonnay vines were found to be susceptible to spring frost because they bud earlier than other varieties. Muscat Blanc and Muller Thurgau were the least productive.