Michael, thanks for your input on this subject. Here is Ohio we had it bad last summer--small leaves with brown curled margins. Maybe 50% normal leaf canopy. People here are still debating what conditions led to it.....very wet 2017 spring after 2016 drought? But I think your idea of very heavy mast year makes sense. Yes, EVERY species went nuts (literally) in 2017. Hadn't made the connection. And yes, as I feared, our sugar is way down. Normal brix is 2.1-2.5. Currently I am measuring 1.6-1.8. Big bummer. Don't feel too bad about your 2.5!
Central Ohio
Leader WSE 2x6
Old metal corn crib converted to "The Shack"
Smoky Lake 6 gallon water jacket canner
Daryl 5" filter press with air pump
Deer Run 125 RO
2023: 140 taps, buckets, 32 gallons
2019: 100 taps, buckets, 45 gallons
2018: 100 taps, buckets, 31 gallons
2017: 100 taps, buckets, 15 gallons
2015: 100 taps, buckets, 34 gallons
2014: 100 taps, buckets, 30 gallons
2013: 100 taps, buckets, 52 gallons