The grape harvest in Oltrepò Pavese: a journey between tradition and innovation
The grape harvest is a magical moment in the world of wine, a ritual that marks the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. Let’s discover together the secrets of this fascinating process, from choosing the right moment to selecting the grapes and the harvesting techniques that influence the quality of the wine.
Introduction to grape harvest
The grape harvest is more than just a simple harvest; it is an event that combines tradition, science and art. Every year, winegrowers and wine enthusiasts look forward to this period, which represents the culmination of months of work and dedication. But what are the factors that determine the right time to harvest? And what techniques are used to ensure the quality of the wine?
The 2024 grape harvest in Oltrepò Pavese area began with positive signs in terms of both quality and quantity of the grapes harvested. Here are some key details:
- Quality and production: the harvest started with high quality expectations for the grapes, despite a decrease in yields of around 30% compared to previous years. This decrease is attributed to unfavourable weather conditions and phytosanitary problems.
- Classical Method: the 2024 vintage promises to be particularly memorable for the Classical Method from Pinot Noir, despite lower yields.
- Grape-harvesting experiences: it is possible to participate in grape-harvesting experiences in the Oltrepò Pavese region, which include manual harvesting in the vineyard, barefoot crushing, a visit to the winery and lunch with the winemaker.
Factors influencing the harvest
Geography and climate
- Geographical location: the latitude and altitude of the vineyard play a crucial role. Regions further south tend to harvest earlier due to higher temperatures.
- Sun exposure: the orientation of the vineyard affects the hours of direct sunlight, which are essential for the ripening of the grapes.
- Climatic conditions: average temperatures, temperature range and annual rainfall are determining factors. A favourable climate accelerates ripening, while adverse conditions may delay it.
Grape ripening
- Sugars and acids: during ripening, the level of sugars in the grapes increases, while acids decrease. This balance is crucial in determining the ideal harvest time.
- Phenolic maturation: concerns the quantity of polyphenols, which influence the colour and structure of the wine. Prolonged ripening can lead to more complex and structured wines.
- Aromas: the presence of terpenes, responsible for aromas, increases with ripening, but may decrease if this is prolonged too long.
Which is the best period to harvest?
In recent decades, climate change has brought forward the harvest period in many regions. However, the ideal time varies according to the type of wine one wishes to produce:
- Sparkling and dessert wines: harvesting is early, often starting between August and September.
- Red and white wines: most harvests take place between September and October.
- Eiswein: these special wines are harvested during the winter, taking advantage of the frost.
Harvest techniques
Manual harvesting
Manual harvesting is a traditional practice that allows careful selection of the bunches of grapes. It is essential in soils with steep slopes, where mechanisation is impossible. Advantages include:
- Careful selection: only the best bunches are picked, discarding those with defects.
- Preservation of quality: the clusters are not crushed, preventing unwanted fermentation.
Mechanised grape harvesting
Used in flat vineyards, mechanised harvesting is faster and cheaper. However, it can compromise quality if not performed correctly.
Scaled harvesting
This technique involves harvesting at different times in each vineyard, ensuring that each bunch reaches optimum ripeness.
Harvesting is an art that requires knowledge, experience and passion. Every decision, from the moment of harvest to the technique used, influences the final result: a wine that tells the story of its territory and the people who produced it. Each bottle is a sensory journey that begins with the grape harvest.
What are the main designations of origin for wines produced in the Oltrepò Pavese area?
The main appellations of origin for wines produced in the Oltrepò Pavese include:
- Oltrepò Pavese DOC: this denomination covers a wide range of wines, including reds, whites and rosés. It is one of the oldest Italian DOCs and represents a variety of wine styles.
- Oltrepò Pavese metodo classico DOCG: this is a controlled and guaranteed designation of origin dedicated to sparkling wines produced with the classic method (or traditional method) based on Pinot Noir.
- Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC: this denomination is reserved for sparkling red wines produced mainly from Croatina grapes.
- Sangue di Giuda dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC: this is a sweet and sparkling red wine, typical of the area, produced from a blend of grapes including Croatina and Barbera.
These appellations reflect the diversity and richness of the Oltrepò Pavese wine heritage, a region renowned for its production of high-quality wines.
What are the main grape varieties grown in Oltrepò Pavese?
In Oltrepò Pavese, the main grape varieties cultivated include:
- Pinot Noir: is one of the most important grape varieties in the region, used both for the production of red wines and for Metodo Classico sparkling wines.
- Croatina: this grape variety is fundamental to the production of wines such as Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese.
- Barbera: another widely cultivated red grape variety, often used in blends with Croatina.
- Riesling: cultivated for the production of white wines, the Riesling of the Oltrepò Pavese is appreciated for its freshness and aromaticity.
- Muscat: mainly used for sweet and aromatic wines.
- Chardonnay: used for both still and sparkling white wines.
These grape varieties contribute to the variety and quality of wines produced in the region, making Oltrepò Pavese one of the most interesting wine-growing areas in Italy.
During your stay at AN Hotels Melegnano or AN Park Hotel Linate, you can discover a variety of nearby activities and attractions:
- Visits to wine cellars: in addition to the grape harvest, explore the wineries of the Oltrepò Pavese for guided tastings and tours offering an immersion in the local wine-making tradition.
- Chignolo Po Castle: visit this fascinating medieval castle, often called the ‘Versailles of Lombardy’, for a plunge into history.
- San Colombano Hill Park: Ideal for nature lovers, this park offers hiking trails and breathtaking views.
- City of Pavia: discover the historic city of Pavia, with its famous Charterhouse, a monastery rich in Renaissance art and architecture.
- Cycling excursions: explore the picturesque landscapes of the Oltrepò Pavese on two wheels, with routes suitable for all levels of ability.
- Museum of Electrical Technology: located in Pavia, this museum offers an interesting collection of historical electrical equipment.
Discover the charm of the Oltrepò Pavese during the grape harvest! Book your stay at AN Hotels Melegnano or AN Park Hotel Linate, both four-star hotels, and immerse yourself in the unique experience of tasting the region’s renowned wines. Take advantage of our strategic location, just a few minutes’ drive from the vineyards, to enjoy an unforgettable wine and food experience. Book now and toast to the quality of our territory just a stone’s throw from Milan and close to one of the wine-growing areas that the whole world envies us!
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