[Our] Red Vinification: The Grapes - part 2

[READ THE PREVIOUS [Our] Red Vinification: the Grapes - part 1]

Speaking of white grapes we specified that they are the first to be gathered in the harvest, and we also gave a rough idea of the order in which they reach maturity. Can we do the same for black grapes too?

Well, we can certainly say that, in principle, black grapes are harvested after the white ones. With regard to our own vineyards, Syrah is usually the first to be harvested, followed by Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Normally it is Barbera that closes the operation.

As we have said several times though, this order is subject to numerous variables.

The first, and most important, factor is certainly the wine we intend to make from a specific batch of grapes: some of our products, such as Cabernet Sauvignon Rubicone I.G.P. “Potente” and the Merlot Rubicone I.G.P. "Sintria" are in fact produced with late harvest grapes, thus slightly extending their stay on the plant to obtain higher sugar concentrations.

Having said that, we must take into consideration the specific characteristics of each plot, which can favour a more or less rapid ripening process, as well as the atmospheric conditions!

So, let's say then that, if it was quite simple to outline an order for white grapes, for black grapes it is decidedly more complex!