Definition: Harvest(s)

In the singular, the term refers to the grapes harvested; in the plural, it refers to the harvest period.

Our photo depicting seated grape harvesting is a utopian joke!

The harvest poses two major problems for winegrowers. The first is choosing the date, which must correspond to the precise moment when the grapes reach perfect maturity. This depends on weather conditions, which vary significantly from one vintage to another in temperate climates.

The second problem, in large wine-growing regions and where permitted, is choosing between manual and mechanical harvesting. The latter can have advantages. One of the main ones is its flexibility and speed of execution, which makes it easier to keep up with the ripening of each grape variety and each plot. Sometimes, machines are preferable to a team of inexperienced or unmotivated grape pickers. On the other hand, machines require a rigorous manual sorting system upon receipt in order to obtain a quality wine.