Assessing fruit maturity and physiological ripeness to inform picking decisions too often relies on subjective processes. Through the implementation of thorough sampling, relevant analysis, and a more holistic understanding of fruit development during the growing season, producers can harvest with more confidence that they have made the correct decisions regarding picks. The panel will discuss sampling protocols for more statistically meaningful vineyard data, viticultural signs such as berry development and canopy senescence, picking for logistical considerations vs. picking for perfection, and best lab practices for sample processing and appropriate analysis.

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Harvest Sampling
Geoff Hall, Viticulturist

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Why are we doing this?
• Quality
• Logistics
• Vineyard
• Winery
• Maximize resources
• No surprises
• Rot, dehydration, yield
• Best time to scout

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“When to pick is the most important
decision I make in a vintage”
-Every winemaker ever

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Winemaking Intent
• Winemaker is my customer
• They are right…sometimes
• Know the intended destination of every block
• Sparkling vs still
• High tier vs production
• Get winemaker to the field at the right time
• Get winemaker to the right location
• Map with various zones
• Winemaker rows

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Methods
• Berry vs cluster
• Random vs intentional
• Walking vs ATV
• Baseline vs Harvest decision
• Observe fruit and canopy
• Yellowing leaves
• Soft berries
• Taste!

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Timing
• End product of wine
• Location
• Ripening potential
• Weather
0.40/day
0.53/day
0.10/day
Rain

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Location
• How many vines/rows/acres
• Random vs purposeful
• Find zones
• Winery capacity

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Zones
22.1 24.0

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Logistics are important
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
AM Sample collected Overnight Soak No Picking Earliest Possible
Picking
Mid Day Processed Visit Vineyard
PM Data Decision Made
• Remember the 0.53 brix/day