Overview
Pickett Fire Scorches Napa County, Casting a Shadow Over Community, Vineyards, and Wine Harvest
The Pickett Fire ignited on August 21st, 2025, near Pickett Road just north of Calistoga in Napa County, California. Driven by dry, windy conditions and intense heat, the fire rapidly spread through rugged terrain and wine country, burning over 6,800 acres and prompting evacuation orders affecting hundreds of residents in Calistoga, Pope Valley, Angwin, and rural communities.
The fire has destroyed at least five structures, including one home and several outbuildings. Heavy smoke has devastated the historic region’s vineyards and agricultural properties, with early estimates indicating over $65 million in damages.
Vineyard Ashes Suspected as Cause
Fire officials are still investigating the cause of the Pickett Fire, but initial reports indicate it may have been caused by improperly discarded ashes at a local vineyard. A contractor working at Hundred Acre Wines on Pickett Road may have inadvertently sparked the fire by discarding hot ashes on or near flammable material.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the Pickett Fire, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a fire attorney at Singleton Schreiber for a free case evaluation today.
Napa Wine Production: Smoke Impact and Industry Concerns
Heavy smoke from the Pickett Fire has cast uncertainty over this year’s wine harvest in Napa County, with growers worried about the impact on their grapes. Preliminary agricultural surveys estimate at least $65 million in damages across nearly 1,500 acres of farmland, impacting more than 3% of Napa Valley’s winegrowing acreage. Most vineyards avoided direct fire damage, but smoke exposure can be particularly devastating for crops, especially during late August when grapes begin to ripen.
Smoke-tainted grapes can result in wines with undesirable flavors described as burnt, ashy, or medicinal. Red varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon are especially vulnerable due to prolonged skin contact during fermentation, raising the risk that large portions of the harvest may be unsellable or need testing and filtration before bottling. Some vintners in hard-hit areas like Pope Valley and Howell Mountain have already warned that their crops may be lost.
In addition to direct crop losses, the region’s economy will face broader consequences:
- The market value of affected wines may decline sharply, sometimes forcing wineries to abandon entire vintages.
- Supply chains and tourism are also at risk, as winery closures and testing delays affect facility operations, worker safety, and visitor revenue.
- Farmworkers face increased health risks due to hazardous smoke exposure, and advocacy groups are demanding stronger workplace protections for both seasonal and permanent staff.
The full impact on agriculture and business will become clearer as growers conduct more crop testing and explore treatments for smoke-tainted fruit. However, many won’t know if smoke taint is present until after fermentation—by which time significant time and labor have already been invested. With wildfire haze lingering throughout the critical harvest season, Napa’s wine industry is facing significant challenges and losses.
Find a Pickett Fire Lawyer Near Me
With the largest fire litigation practice in the country, Singleton Schreiber has represented over 30,000 wildfire victims and recovered more than $3 billion for clients nationwide. Individuals, as well as vineyards and winemakers face exceptional challenges, but our attorneys are committed to helping victims recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
If you’ve been affected by the Pickett Fire—whether through evacuation, property damage, smoke exposure, injury, or emotional distress—you may be entitled to compensation. Even if you have insurance or are exploring disaster relief programs like FEMA, our team can help you understand your options and assist with filing claims to ensure you receive all the aid and benefits available.
If You or a Loved One Has Experienced Any of the Following, You May Be Eligible for Pickett Fire Compensation
Business Damage
- Loss of Grapes or Harvest Due to Smoke Taint
- Damage to Vineyard Property, Equipment, or Facilities
- Business Interruption and Lost Profits
- Testing, Storage, and Mitigation Costs
- Loss of Future Income Tied to Reputation or Long-Term Vineyard Damage
Property Damage
- Home, Structure, or Property Damage
- Damage to Vegetation, Trees, or Landscaping
- Damage from Soot & Ash
- Erosion
- Utility & Other Service Interruptions
- Housing Market Impacts
- Underinsured Property
Personal Injury
- Wrongful Death from Fire or Smoke
- Serious Burns
- Hospitalization
- Other Serious Personal Injury
- Long-Term Health Effects
- Psychological Impact
- Expensive Evacuation
Other
- Harm to Animals/Pets
- Economic Loss
- Damage to Infrastructure
Pickett Fire Resources
After the Fire Napa Support Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Pickett Fire start?
The fire started at 2343 Pickett Road, north of Calistoga, near the Hundred Acre Wines vineyard, in dry brush and grassland.
What caused the Pickett Fire?
The official cause is being investigated, but initial reports indicate the fire may have been caused by a vineyard contractor who improperly discarded ashes. Singleton Schreiber is closely monitoring the investigation and will share more details as they emerge.
What legal options exist for Pickett Fire victims?
Depending on what or who is ultimately found responsible for starting the fire, victims may be able to pursue compensation for business losses, evacuation costs, property loss, and more. Singleton Schreiber specializes in wildfire litigation and corporate negligence and can guide victims through the claims process.
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