As the sun rises over the vineyards at Zegini’s Winery, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation. Harvest season is in full swing, and the delicate dance of timing each pick to perfection is underway. For Dimitris, our seasoned wine grower, and his daughter Chrysanthi, the talented enologist at the heart of our winery, this is the culmination of months of careful observation and meticulous planning.
The Role of Timing in the Vineyard
“Timing is everything,” Dimitris often says, as he walks through the rows of vines. Each grape variety in our vineyard ripens at its own pace, influenced by the unique combination of soil, sun, and the subtle nuances of the season. Knowing when to harvest is both an art and a science, requiring a deep understanding of the grapes and the environment they thrive in.
On July 27th, we harvested our Chardonnay. The warm days and nights leading up to the pick accelerated ripening, leading to a harvest 5-10 days earlier than in previous years. This early harvest captured the bright fruit flavors and balanced acidity that define this elegant white wine. A few weeks later, on August 8th and 9th, we turned our attention to the reds—Agiorgitiko and Merlot. These grapes had reached their peak, with rich, concentrated sugars and tannins that promise a robust, full-bodied wine.
Chrysanthi’s Analytical Eye
While Dimitris trusts his instincts honed over decades in the vineyard, Chrysanthi brings a precise, scientific approach to determining the optimal harvest time. Armed with her tools, she regularly samples grapes from different blocks, measuring sugar levels (Brix), acidity, and pH. These analyses are crucial in achieving the perfect balance in the final wine.
“Every grape tells a story,” Chrysanthi explains. “I’m looking for the point where the sugars are high enough to produce a well-structured wine, but the acidity is still vibrant to ensure freshness. For our Assyrtiko, which we’ll harvest in a few days, it’s all about preserving those delicate floral and citrus aromas that make this variety so special.”
By constantly monitoring the grapes, Chrysanthi can pinpoint the ideal moment when the grapes are at their aromatic peak, ensuring that every bottle of wine captures the essence of the vineyard and the vintage.
The Upcoming Harvest: Assyrtiko
Now, the focus shifts to our Assyrtiko, a grape known for its crisp acidity and minerality. With the harvest just days away, Dimitris and Chrysanthi are in constant communication, discussing the latest readings and the weather forecast. The decision to harvest isn’t taken lightly; it’s a collective effort where tradition meets technology.
“This is the moment we’ve been preparing for all year,” Dimitris says with a mix of excitement and determination. “The grapes are ready, and we’re ready to bring in the harvest at just the right time.”
Join Us in the Vineyard
As wine enthusiasts, we invite you to share in the excitement of the harvest season at Zegini’s Winery. Follow along on our blog and social media as we pick the Assyrtiko and begin the next chapter of its journey—from vine to wine. This is the essence of winemaking: a blend of nature’s gifts, human skill, and the pursuit of perfection in every bottle.
Here’s to the harvest—and to the wines that will soon grace our tables!
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