Summer is a key period in the vine cycle. The months of July and August are marked by intensive and meticulous work, essential to ensure a quality harvest in the fall. At this time of year, winegrowers are fully mobilized, juggling between monitoring the vines and preparing for the imminent 2024 harvest. Here is an overview of the main wine activities during these crucial months.
Vineyards Monitoring and Maintenance
Fight Against Diseases and Pests
Summer is conducive to the development of diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew, as well as the appearance of pests such as grape worms. Winegrowers must regularly inspect their vines and apply appropriate phytosanitary treatments to protect the plants. The use of organic products and integrated pest management practices are increasingly common to minimize environmental impact.
Trellising and Stripping
Training consists of attaching the branches to wires to keep them well ventilated and exposed to the sun. Stemming, for its part, is the elimination of greedy plants, these useless shoots which can drain the plant's energy. These operations are crucial to guarantee proper ripening of the grapes.
Grassing and Irrigation
In some areas, grass cover is used to control erosion and maintain biodiversity. In times of drought, irrigation may become necessary. Winegrowers closely monitor the water requirements of the vine to avoid water stress, which could harm the quality of the grapes.
Véraison: A Decisive Moment
Start of Véraison
Veraison, the stage where the grapes begin to change color and accumulate sugars, generally begins in July. This is a critical phase where winegrowers must be extra vigilant. Veraison marks the beginning of the maturation of the grapes and announces the intensive preparations for the harvest.
Canopy Management
During veraison, management of the canopy (all leaves and branches) becomes essential. Winegrowers can practice leaf removal, consisting of removing certain leaves to improve the exposure of the bunches to the sun and promote better aeration. This helps prevent fungal diseases and improve the concentration of aromas in the grapes.
Preparations for the 2024 Harvest
Forecasts and Planning
In July and August, winegrowers begin to estimate the harvest date based on the evolution of the ripening of the grapes. Maturity analyzes are carried out to monitor sugar, acidity and polyphenol levels. This helps determine the optimal time for harvest.
Overhaul of Equipment
Preparing the harvest also involves careful review of equipment. Harvesting machines, presses, vats and all oenological equipment must be inspected and maintained. A breakdown in the middle of the harvest could have disastrous consequences on the harvest.
Staff Organization
The harvest often requires additional labor. The winegrowers recruit grape pickers and plan their arrival. Accommodation and food logistics must be arranged in advance to ensure a smooth harvest.
The months of July and August are decisive for the success of the harvest. The hard work and vigilance of winegrowers during this period prepares the ground for a quality harvest. Every operation, from disease surveillance to canopy management to logistical preparations, contributes to the production of exceptional wines. With summer in full swing, winegrowers are preparing with passion and expertise for the big harvest deadline, the culmination of their year of work.
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