HOW DOES CLIMATE AFFECT VERAISON?
With Pacific Ocean influence, many microclimates, configuration of hills and the right amount of heat, Napa Valley remains world famous for growing grapes. For veraison to be successful, it should begin earlier and last longer – the grapes become extra flavorful in the heat. If the season is too cool and short, the grapes typically do not have as much sweet flavor.
DEFINITION
While Veraison is a physical transformation to the eye, it’s also an important time for the winery. The most evident change is the color. Veraison is a time in the lifecycle of a grape where they start to accumulate sugar and start to soften.
COLORS IN THE GRAPES
During this time, grape colors change from green to a range of colors such as deep purple and golden yellow. You also might notice different colors all mixed in a grape cluster. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes start as green, hard grapes and during veraison, they turn pink and then a dark purple, deep blue color. Sauvignon Blanc grapes also start off at green color and are hard, small grapes and then become translucent or yellow tinted.
THE NITTY GRITTY
While Veraison is a physical transformation to the eye, it also contains an important chemical transformation. Essentially, the energy from photosynthesis in the roots is transferred from vine to grape. As the fruit grows from the energy, the grapes develop sugar, polyphenols, and aroma compounds – this protects them from the sun! As the grape starts to turn color, it is important to monitor them. The winemaking team picks a few grapes to test sample’s acid levels, pH, and sugar levels. The time in between grape veraison and harvest fluctuates, however this stage is exciting for the whole winery as it predicates the first day of Harvest!