When Do You Harvest Chardonnay Grapes for Wine?
Chardonnay wine most likely originated in the Burgundy region in France where warm days and cool nights provide the perfect climate for the chardonnay grape. Chardonnay grapes also grow well in the Carneros district in California and have adapted surprisingly well to Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina and South Africa. Does this Spark an idea?
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Characteristics
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The temperamental chardonnay grape is small, thin skinned and fragile. It is expensive to grow, harvest and age because it is easily affected by changes in the weather and in the soil, which affects the flavor and aroma this grape imparts on wine.
Almost Ready
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About midsummer, the grapes begin to turn translucent, signaling that harvest time is near. The grapes then begin to sweeten and swell with water, diluting the acid concentration. Growers then monitor the grapes daily, measuring sugar levels and tasting for ripeness.
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Harvest Time
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About 100 to 120 days after flowering, the grapes should be ready to harvest. In warm areas, the harvest usually starts in mid-August, but in cool areas, the harvest starts in late September.
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References
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