Vèraison - What it Means

In a previous post we mentioned that grape vines go through the process of vèraison during mid to late summer. Vèraison is one of the most important processes a grape vine goes through during it's annual life cycle. It is when the grapes ripen and go from green to pink, purple, and red. During this time the grapes also sweeten. White grapes also go through this process; however, they turn more transparent instead of turning colors.

Starting in late July (northern hemisphere) or late January (southern hemisphere) the grape vine starts concentrating more on making sweet grapes. Once vèraison starts it takes about 30-70 days for the grapes to reach the point where they're ready to make wine. 

Before vèraison the grapes are hard, small, and acidic. They are high in chlorophyll which gives them their green color. They start to transfer their energy into the grapes instead of the vine when vèraison starts. Replacing the chlorophyll with anthocyanins in red grapes, carotenoids in white grapes, sugars, and other nutrients, the vines rapidly grow in size and begin to develop aromas. This is also when the acid levels fall and the sugar levels rise in the grapes until they are perfectly balanced.

Some varieties of grapes a prone to ripening unevenly causing some grapes on the bunch to be ripe and ready to harvest while other grapes on the same bunch are still green. This is called millerandage. This produces wines that smell sweet but taste "green," or unbalanced. Some wines that are made with uneven grapes include Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Malbec, Gewürztraminer, and Zinfandel and are some of the hardest grapes to grow.

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The Annual Lifecyle of Grape Vines

Grapes have a very unique and interesting annual life cycle. They start off growing in the spring, bloom throughout the summer, then become dormant in the winter. They are perennials so they naturally grow each year without having to be replanted; however, they require pruning to help maintain organization.

When a vine is first planted it is not expected to produce fruit right away. Actually, flower clusters that grow within the first couple years are generally cut off to allow the plant to put all of it's energy into the vine. This process produces strong root systems and overall better vines. It's not until around the vine's third year is when it becomes ready to produce quality grapes that are good for making wine. However, it could take up to 30 years for a vine to mature and be considered "old vines."

Winter - Each winter the vines are pruned to allow the strongest canes to grow the following spring.

Spring - During the spring, the buds begin to emerge. They are very fragile when they first sprout but they get stronger as they grow.

Did You Know?: Grapevine flowers are called "Perfect Flowers" because they don't need bees to pollinate. They pollinate themselves!

Summer - In the summer months the clusters that will eventually become berry bunches begin to appear.

Mid-Late Summer - Mid to late summer is when the berries begin to ripen. This is when vérasion (the onset of ripening) happens. During this time the vineyards are so beautiful as the grapes turn from green to pinks and purples. 

Note: During vérasion some pruners remove some of the green bunches to allow the nutrients to concentrate on the remaining grapes to make them stronger. This is called "Green Harvesting."

Fall - When fall arrives the vine wood has turned brown and hardened. At the same time the grapes are ripening and their sugar levels are rising. When they reach their sweet spot in the fall they are harvested. 

Did You Know?: Grapes do not continue to ripen after they are picked.

Late Fall - After the harvest and when the vines stop producing the leaves lose their color and fall off. When winter returns the vines are again pruned and the process starts all over.

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Easy Way to Understand Tannins in White Vs. Red Wines

"Tannins are a class of astringent, polyphenolic biomolecules that bind to and precipitate proteins and various other organic compounds including amino acids and alkaloids." - Wikipedia

Tannin is a popular word in the wine industry and it may be a bit hard to understand at first. Red wines are generally higher in tannins than white and that's part of the reason the majority of red wines are dry instead of sweet.

Here is an easier explanation:

Have you ever peeled the skin off a grape? It has a flavor that strips the moisture from your mouth (it's dry). The reason for this is the tannins that are in the skin. Since red wines are produced with more contact with the grape skins, they absorb more of that dryness. Due to this extended time of contact with the skins, the wine is also transformed from clear to red in color.

Working as a natural antioxidant which protects the wine, tannins are a direct reason for certain red wines to be so age worthy (like Cabernet Sauvignon). They also have many health benefits!

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Cosentino Winery - Napa Valley, California

"Delicious wines. Friendly staff. Charming place to gather.

Deeply rooted in California winemaking and ideally situated on the St. Helena Highway, Cosentino Winery is THE place to relax, sip and savor the distinctive varietals of Napa and Lodi. With nearly 40 years of experience crafting and sharing our wines, we are dedicated to creating experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Join us for a flight on our scenic sundrenched patio, drop-in for a tasting at our casual bar, or reserve a private experience in THE Lounge — with plenty of ways to enjoy Cosentino, we invite you to plan your trip today." - Cosentino Winery

Distinguished for their Bordeaux inspired blend, Cosentino Winery set the standard for wine making in Napa. Their dedication to quality wines over the last 35 years still stands strong and Marty Petersen (Vice President, Winemaking Operations, Vintage Wine Estates, Winemaker, Cosentino Winery) keeps that enthusiasm alive today. With a family history rich in farming, he has the knowledge and commitment to wine making that few others can compare to. Marty's skill is backed up by his proficiency on the cellar side of wine making through his education at Fresno State University where he earned his Bachelor of Sciences in Enology.

"Located at the “Gateway” to the Napa Valley, Cosentino’s tasting room and its ivy-covered façade is one of Napa Valley’s most recognized properties in the highly regarded appellation of Oakville.

Cosentino is ideal for a first or last stop or impulse visit when headed to Mustard’s Grill or photo opportunity by the landmark Napa Barrel sign.

In 2015, construction was completed on a beautiful new patio area with both a water and fire element. This allows guests to enjoy a comfortable seated outside area which is fairly rare for winery tasting rooms." - Cosentino Winery

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Wine for the 4th of July

Raise your glass and toast America's birthday this week while celebrating the 4th of July! Wine is always the right choice for any occasion and Independence Day is no exception. Cookouts, pool parties, fireworks, and FOOD... wine is the perfect side for all of the above. Here are some wines we love to pair with 4th of July favorite foods:

Shrimp - Reisling goes perfectly with grilled shrimp as it's subtle-sweet flavor pops with the sweetness of the shrimp.

Burgers - Probably the most popular cookout option, burgers pair wonderfully with a Bordeaux blend. The slight smoky taste is great with most grilled items.

Hot Dogs - Often times, burgers and hot dogs go hand-in-hand. Therefore, they do pair well with a Bordeaux blend like the burgers, but a Cabernet is a spot on choice, too!

Chicken - Accompany your delicious grilled chicken with a sparkling wine. The bubbles from the wine really compliment the crispy skin.

Steak - If you're splurging for a steak on the grill this 4th of July, pair it with a delicious, traditional Zinfandel.

Happy 4th of July from AWineryReview.com!