The grape harvest season
The grape harvest usually begins in summer and lasts until autumn. The exact time depends on the grape variety, the climatic conditions and the region where the grapes are grown.
Every year, the winemaker and his colleagues must assess the stage at which the grapes are at the end of the summer and when they reach the optimum level of ripeness. This is assessed using the following criteria:
Phenological ripening
First, the phenological ripening of the grapes is considered. This includes observing indicators such as the change in color of the grapes, the change in aroma, the development of the seeds and the taste. These factors help to determine the optimal time for harvesting.
Measuring BIX and acidity
If these criteria are met, the sugar and acid content must be measured. These values are important factors in deciding when to harvest and are measured directly in the vineyard. In order to measure the Brix degree (sugar content) and acid content, a grape bunch must be selected that represents the grapes in the vineyard in terms of ripeness and appearance.
The winemaker can measure the acidity using different methods. On the one hand, the acidity can be assessed by taste through years of experience and training. However, it is safer to use methods such as titration with a suitable acid solution or the use of a pH meter.
The grapes are then crushed and a few drops are placed on the measuring surface of a so-called refractometer. A refractometer is a device that can be used to measure the BIX degree of grapes.
It is important to take Brix and acidity measurements regularly during the harvest to monitor the grapes' development. The optimal balance between sugar and acidity can vary depending on the wine style and grape variety, so winemakers must consider their own preferences and quality standards to determine the best time to harvest.
The weather
It is also important to always take the weather during the harvest period into account. Very sunny, warm weather promotes ripening, while persistent rain or cool temperatures can slow down ripening. Extreme weather such as hail or storms can also affect the harvest, as the harvest may have to be interrupted or protective measures taken to protect the grapes from the weather.
grape harvest process
Once the exact harvest time has been determined, the vineyards must be prepared for harvest. The vineyards are cleaned and unwanted or rotten grapes are removed.
At the same time, harvest workers or machines are mobilized and prepared.
There are two main methods for harvesting the grapes: by hand or by machine. Hand-picking involves experienced pickers hand-selecting the best grapes while discarding the inferior ones. This method requires a lot of work and skill, but it allows for a selective harvest that uses only the best grapes. Therefore, this method is often used for premium wines.
During mechanical harvesting, specialised machines shake the grapes from the vines, after which a conveyor belt separates the grapes from leaves, stems and rotten grapes. This method is therefore more efficient and faster, but the machines are less selective. This method is mainly used in mass production for cost reasons.
The harvested grapes are then loaded into containers and transported to the processing area.
What happens after the grape harvest?
The harvested grapes are processed in a winery or winery. To do this, they are first destemmed, with any remaining stems being removed from the grapes. Then the maceration takes place, in which the grapes are pressed or crushed to release the juice. The resulting grape juice is fermented in tanks or barrels.
In order to start the fermentation in a controlled manner, yeast is added to the grape juice. This converts the sugar into alcohol, which takes several weeks.
After fermentation is complete, the solid grape residue (pomace) is separated from the liquid by pressing or draining, depending on the desired wine style.
The wine is then placed in barrels or tanks for aging to develop its flavors and texture. This process can take months to years, depending on the type of wine.
After maturation, the wine is clarified, filtered and bottled. It is now ready for sale and enjoyment.
While the steps described above represent the general process of harvesting grapes, specific details and practices may vary by wine region, grape variety and winery.
Conclusion
The grape harvest is an exciting moment in the winemaking year and a fascinating experience for every wine lover. It combines tradition and innovation, manual work and technology. If you are interested in being part of a grape harvest, please contact a winery in your region. Every year, the winemakers are happy to find energetic and inquisitive helpers to help them with the harvest. And after you have had the opportunity to gain your own experience in the vineyard, the wine tastes even better in the glass. Cheers!
