When you say it out loud, Veraison (Veh-Ray-zon) sounds like something that may happen at the end of the harvest season – perhaps a reference to all the shriveled grapes left behind?

Quite the contrary! Veraison marks the time of year when the young green clusters in the vineyard stop focusing on growing larger, and start the process of getting riper. Berries begin to soften, as sugars concentrate and acids mature. It seems to happen instantaneously.  For months, you see nothing in the vineyard but hard, green berries. Then, seemingly without warning, a pop of red here, a few black berries there. The clusters begin to transform right before your eyes with beautiful contrast..

In the winemaker’s world, this marks the beginning of the countdown to harvest. In practical terms, it is time to get the house in order!  Because although the lingering summer felt like vacation vibes would last forever, those few bursts of color on the vines remind us otherwise. Time to dust off those lists and check them twice – production plans, lab supplies, last minute bottling projects, cellar arrangements, equipment maintenance, barrel calculations and cleaning, cleaning, cleaning.

From here on out, you will feel the energy begin to rise through the valley. Vine vibrations abuzz create an excitement and anticipation of another year, another vintage, and another chance to create spectacular wine.  

Enjoy the sunshine ️ – and all the wine.

Cheers,
Lisa 🥂