Craft & Cork >> Winemaking

Harvest season is one of the most exciting times of the year in the world of winemaking. It is the moment when months of careful vineyard tending come to fruition, and the grapes are finally ready to be picked at their peak ripeness. In the Niagara region, for example, the harvest typically begins in early fall and stretches through October, reflecting the area’s unique climate and growing conditions. No matter the location, harvest is always a celebration of nature’s bounty and a critical time for all winemakers.

What makes harvest so special is the way it influences the character of the wine. Grapes picked earlier tend to produce wines with brighter acidity and lighter body, while later harvests can yield wines with deeper flavors and richness. Take our South Africa Sauvignon Blanc, for example. Its crisp aromas of apple, lemon, and kiwi paired with herbaceous undertones reflect a perfectly timed harvest that preserves freshness and vibrancy. Similarly, the Winemaker’s Trio White, a lively blend of Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscat, showcases tropical fruit and floral notes that are only possible when each varietal is harvested at just the right moment.

Harvest is just as important for red wines. Bold selections like our Italy Rosso Grande Eccellente, with its bouquet of ripe berries and spice, depend on extended hang time in the vineyard to develop firmly structured tannins and complexity. The Winemaker’s Trio Red, a modern blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Zinfandel, captures the warmth of late season ripening with layers of chocolate, cherry, and red berry flavors. 

Together, these wines highlight the magic of harvest that can transform simple fruit into bottles full of personality, place, and passion.