With the beginning of a new year, a new cycle also begins in the vineyard. Each month, the vines go through different stages that define the final result of the harvest and, therefore, the wine we will enjoy in the future. Below, we explore month by month the work and changes that take place in the vineyard.
January: the dream of the vine
In mid-winter, vines are in dormancy, a state of deep rest. This period is essential for their rest and recovery.
Labor:
- Winter pruning: shoots from the previous year are removed to control vigor and direct future growth.
- Vineyard maintenance: repair of trellises, wires and stakes.
February: preparation for awakening
Although the vines are still dormant, temperatures are slowly beginning to rise.
Labor:
- Continuation and completion of pruning.
- Soil tillage to improve oxygenation and weed control.
March: beginning of the awakening (Weeping of the vine)
With the arrival of spring, the sap begins to circulate, and the vines “weep” from pruning cuts.
Labor:
- Soil fertilization to provide essential nutrients.
- The vineyards are tilled.
April: sprouting and first shoots
The first green shoots appear, officially marking the beginning of the vegetative cycle.
Labor:
- Preventive treatments against diseases.
- Green pruning, if necessary, to balance production.
May: vegetative growth
The vines begin to develop rapidly, and flower clusters are visible. From the inflorescence the flower is born, and by pollination we begin to see the fruit set, the conversion to fruit.
Labor:
- Leaf removal to improve plant ventilation.
- Weeding, to clean the vine of all stems and shoots.
- Constant monitoring of pests and diseases.
June: flowering and fruit set
The vine enters a critical phase: the flowers turn into small grape berries.
Labor:
- Pest control to protect flowering.
- Vigor management through topping or thinning.
July: veraison, the change of color
The grapes are growing and ripening. It is a delicate moment until they acquire their definitive color.
Labor:
- Cluster thinning to improve the quality of the harvest.
- Organic treatments support our commitment to sustainable agriculture.
August: grape ripening
The grapes begin to accumulate sugars and lose acidity, approaching the time of harvest.
Labor:
- Analysis of the state of maturity.
- Preparation for harvesting.
September: grape harvest
The most awaited moment of the year: the harvesting of the grapes at their optimum point of ripeness.
Labor:
- Hand or mechanized harvesting.
- Transport of the grapes to the winery to begin the winemaking process.
October: post-harvest and leaf fall
After harvest, the vines begin to lose their leaves and prepare to rest.
Labor:
- Fall fertilization to replenish nutrients in the soil.
- Review of post-harvest diseases.
November: vegetative rest
Temperatures drop, and the vines reduce their activity to a minimum.
Labor:
- Soil tillage to improve water infiltration.
December: the end and the beginning of the cycle
The annual cycle concludes, and the vineyard prepares again for winter rest.
Labor:
- Protection against frost and extreme conditions.
- Winter pruning, in order to regulate the plant both in quantity and quality.
A cycle that connects us with nature
Depending on the weather, the grape variety and the area where the vineyards are located, times may vary.
Each month in the vineyard is a lesson in patience and dedication. This cycle, repeated year after year, defines the essence of each bottle of wine that reaches our tables. We work to respect each stage and bring out the best of each vintage.
Do you want to discover how we take care of our vineyards? We invite you to visit us at Finca Antigua, Finca Valpiedra and Finca Montepedroso so that you can discover viticulture in first person.
