Introduction to the Pickett Fire Investigation

California fire investigators are currently probing the circumstances surrounding the start of the almost 7,000-acre Pickett fire, which continues to threaten hundreds of buildings and dozens of wineries in Napa Valley. The investigation is focused on determining the role, if any, that a prestigious Napa Valley winery played in the ignition of the fire.

Background on Hundred Acre Winery

A spokesperson for Hundred Acre, a popular Calistoga-based winery, confirmed that company representatives had recently spoken with fire investigators. The winery is working cooperatively with the investigation into the Pickett fire, according to Sam Singer, a spokesperson for One True Vine, a company that includes Hundred Acre wines. Hundred Acre has been described as a “cult Cabernet” winemaker by The San Francisco Chronicle.

Possible Cause of the Fire

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, a source with knowledge of the discussions at Hundred Acre told The Times that investigators were looking into the possibility that discarded ashes from the vineyard had sparked the major fire. The Pickett fire ignited on August 21 at 2343 Pickett Road, just outside of Calistoga, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. This address is part of the Hundred Acre property, Singer confirmed.

Investigation Details

Singer declined to comment on reports about the discarded ashes. However, he made clear that there was no controlled burn on the property that might have gotten out of control. Officials with Cal Fire, which is leading the fire investigation and response, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Pickett fire remained at just under 7,000 acres as of Thursday, with 33% containment, according to Cal Fire reports.

Fire Response and Damage

The blaze has not grown in several days, but Cal Fire reported that “large fuels continue to smolder within the fire perimeter as firefighters work to construct control lines within steep, rugged terrain.” While the extent of damage to vineyards and properties around the region hasn’t yet been assessed, no structures have been reported destroyed or damaged. Singer said Hundred Acre’s properties have had road and infrastructure damage, but no buildings or vineyards were affected. There are more than 2,500 people assigned to the fire response, according to Cal Fire.

Conclusion

The investigation into the Pickett fire is ongoing, and officials are working to determine the cause of the blaze. The cooperation of Hundred Acre winery with the investigation is a positive step towards understanding the events surrounding the fire. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential to prioritize the safety of the community and the protection of the environment.

FAQs

• Q: What is the current status of the Pickett fire?
  A: The Pickett fire remains at just under 7,000 acres, with 33% containment.
• Q: Is Hundred Acre winery cooperating with the investigation?
  A: Yes, Hundred Acre winery is working cooperatively with the investigation into the Pickett fire.
• Q: What is the possible cause of the fire being investigated?
  A: Investigators are looking into the possibility that discarded ashes from the vineyard sparked the major fire.
• Q: Have any structures been damaged or destroyed in the fire?
  A: No structures have been reported destroyed or damaged, although there has been road and infrastructure damage to Hundred Acre’s properties.