CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Virginia Wineries Association reports that vineyards across the Commonwealth experienced a severe frost event overnight on Tuesday and it resulted in substantial damage to early-season grape growth, which will significantly impact the 2026 Virginia wine vintage.

Unseasonably low temperatures during a critical stage of vine development have affected vineyards in multiple regions, including the Shenandoah Valley.

Early assessments indicate widespread primary bud loss in many sites, which could reduce yields and alter the composition of the 2026 harvest.

Despite the damage, vineyard teams are actively assessing conditions and implementing mitigation strategies where possible.