Recent storms in California caused about $30 billion in damage to the state, but they also brought relief to the wine sector by providing winter rains, which are especially important for vines while they are still dormant, and by refilling aquifers and water tables. See also this article describing how it has benefitted Sonoma County wineries. The heavy rains also reportedly washed away toxic vineyard salt deposits, which can affect grape quality. Salt intrusion also can contaminate the ground and well water used by wine growers for irrigation.
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