2012 harvest: first maturity control

Posted by
August 17, 2012

As a kind of ritual, we carry out the first grape maturity control on August 10th at Quinta Vale d’Agodinho, our main vineyard. This year was not different, and although the posting is coming few days late, I think it is still interesting for you to see how things are evolving.

2007 10.49%, September 19th

2009 11.86%, September 14th

2010 10.05%, September 18th

2011 12.07%, September 12th

2012 9.13%, ?

We had discussed this before, and is no surprise for anyone that grapes’ maturity is running later than other years. On the same date last year, for instance, the average level of sugar of the berries was 3 p.p. higher that this year. Thus, we all expect a later harvest this year, which may be a good thing. As harvest is expected to start later in September, temperatures may be lower, making grape pickers’ life easier and, at the same time, grapes will reach the winery fresher.

What is being odd this year, and confusing for vines and humans, is the weather. Very difficult to predict. Hot and dry winter, cold spring, followed by a very hot beginning go summer, than temperatures oscillating between 14º C and 45º in the eight weeks. Last week we had around 10mm of rain, which at this time helps a lot the vines. But honestly, I don’t know what to expect from this harvest.

Oscar

Vineyards

If you enjoyed this post, please consider leaving a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.

  • Joe

    Oscar, Can you explain what the % is a measurement of? Also are the vines in the picture Touriga vines?

    • Oscar Quevedo

      Hi Joe, the % is potential alcohol, so if we harvest now, how much alcohol would we have in our wine. Rught, the closer vines are Touriga Franca and the further Touriga Nacional.

      • Joe

        Hi Oscar, So how do you tell the difference between Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional? I would love to come and see but that will be in a few years. Thank you for your posts,they sure beat outdated books written by outsiders. Joe

        • Oscar Quevedo

          Hi Joe, they are very different in size, color and, for sure, in taste. Nacional is smaller in size, purple in color and with orange flower and violer flavors. Touriga Franca is more into dark berries, smooth and elegant on the pallet with great tannins.