It finally stopped raining, but we (Winchester area) are having an on-going wet event since 10/9/13.  I counted >108 hours of wetness with an average temperature of 54F (ranging from 48F to 60F).  It has been a long enough for Botrytis, and although the temperature was bit low, downy mildew probably had some chances as well.

Here is a list of things to be considered:

1) Time to harvest (if you are picking in a few days, I do not see the benefit of spraying now)
2) Current Botrytis situation in your vineyards
3) Variety (red with loose cluster ~ lower Botrytis risk)
4) Canopy management (Open fruiting zone is always helpful!)
5) Birds/insect damages (more damages, higher the Botrytis risk)
6) Fungicide effect on wine quality

As I mentioned earlier this week, we had Botrytis risk event on last Monday; however, it had been dry for several weeks until that rain.  Thus, the Monday’s risk might not have resulted in many infections.  On the other hand, Botrytis spores are very common, and we did have a few mornings with fogs, so, it is probably a good idea to scout your vineyards.

Since none of Botrytis materials have a kick-back activity to speak of (they may provide up to 24 hour kick-back), we really need to rely on their protective activity.  If you are planning on harvesting in a few days, I do not see compelling reasons to spray at this moment.  However, if you still have more than a week to go, and there is on-going Botrytis in your field and/or seeing bird damages, an extra spray may provide you a protection that you need.  Just for your information, there is a low chance of rain (30%, according to WeatherUnderground) on this Wed, but other than that, we should be in 60’s and dry.