Harvest
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.
See Also
Must
Grape must is the freshly pressed, unfermented grape juice which contains the fruit's skins, seeds and sometimes stems (collectively referred to as pomace).
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is a soft organic acid produced during malolactic fermentation of wines. It smoothens the wine's total acidity, increases pH and adds creamy, buttery or velvety textures and flavors.
Irrigation
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to vineyards to provide the necessary 25-35 inches of annual water in dry climates.
Hybrid
Hybrid varieties are created by crossing two or more different grapevine species to get a final product that offers resistance to cold, diseases and humidity, making them ideal for tough climates.
Amphora
Amphora is a traditional clay or terracotta vessel used for fermenting, aging and storing wine. These vessels are neutral and porous, allowing micro oxygenation without adding oak flavors.
pH
The pH of wine is the measure of its total acidity (hydrogen ion concentration), typically ranging from 2.9 to 4.0 in most wines.
Oak
Oak imparts flavor, aroma and texture into wines through fermentation in oak barrels. These barrels act as gentle, breathable vessels that add complex notes and improve the wine's overall structure and mouthfeel.
Malic Acid
Malic acid is a naturally occuring organic acid in wine grapes, primarily found in unripe or cool climate berries. It gives a sharp acidity, tartness and freshness to wine.