Wine producers in California are concerned about the effects of forest fires on their grapes.

Hundreds of fires have caused massive destruction in California this summer. Discussions on the possible negative effect of the smoke on wine grapes are becoming increasingly agitated. Wine producers in Mendocino County are particularly hard hit, but growers in Napa and Sonoma are also concerned about the effects of the fires. Acording to media reports, some growers are not all that concerned: their comment is that a slight smoky taste in the finished wine could be attractive to consumers. (WF)