By Malvina Demaj Last Updated: Mar 6, 2026

Harvest

(haa-vuhst)
DEFINITION

Harvest

The harvest marks the end of the vine growing cycle, typically occuring between August and October in the Northern hemisphere. It is the stage where ripe grapes are picked from the vineyard to begin winemaking and its timing is determined by sugar, acid and flavor balance. Grapes meant for high acid white wines are often picked earlier, while fuller bodied, high sugar red wine grapes are picked later.

Did you know? Some of the best sweet wines (e.g., Sauternes) are made from late harvest grapes affected by the noble rot fungus Botrytis cinerea.

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