Vindimas is the Portuguese name for the season when the harvest (harvesting) of the grape takes place and is one of the most crucial steps in the process of winemaking.
In a broader sense, the harvest encompasses the period between the grape harvest and the start of wine production.
The time of harvest is determined primarily by the ripeness of the grape as measured by sugar, acid, and tannin levels with winemakers basing their decision to pick based on the style of wine they wish to produce.
The weather can also shape the timetable of harvesting with the threat of heat, rain, hail, and frost which can damage the grapes and bring about various vine diseases.
In addition to determining the time of the harvest, winemakers and vineyard owners must also determine whether to use hand pickers or mechanical harvesters.
The harvest season typically falls between August & October in the Northern Hemisphere and February & April in the Southern Hemisphere.
With various climate conditions, grape varieties, and wine styles the harvesting of grapes could happen in every month of the calendar year somewhere in the world.
In Portugal, the wine harvest season is just around the corner and with it the most anticipated time of year for wine lovers and tourists.
Tourists from around the world join the local wine tourism events to participate in the entire wine-making process, getting to know the customs, knowledge, and flavors of the region. The experience usually lasts about 6 hours and aims to provide visitors with an enriching experience.
Throughout the activity, participants will be accompanied by elements of the Wine Tourism Team, who will provide the necessary information on the progress and its different phases.
Find out more about wine and agritourism in Portugal.