Wine harvest: A key stage in wine production and the use of protective equipment and work clothes
Choosing the right time to harvest grapes is key, but just as important is deciding on the right work clothes for working in the vineyard. Although at first glance the choice of which wine harvest work clothes to choose may seem less important, it is in fact essential for efficiency and comfort during the harvest. Let me serve you the truth with a joke: the right work clothes can significantly improve your work experience during one of the most important events in the winemaking calendar.
1. Optimal time for wine harvest
The decision about when to pick grapes is one of the most important that a winegrower will make. This time determines the level of sugar, acid and tannins in the grapes, all of which affect the taste, structure and aging potential of the resulting wine. Are you curious about all the factors that influence this decision?- Ripeness of the grapes: The grapes must reach optimal ripeness, which means the right balance between sugar and acid.
- Weather conditions: Rain, hail or prolonged heat can compromise the quality of the grapes, sometimes pushing winegrowers to harvest earlier or later than they would ideally like.
- Wine style: Grapes harvested earlier (with higher acidity and lower sugar content) may be used for sparkling wines, while grapes harvested later (with higher sugar content) may be intended for dessert wines.
2. Manual or mechanical harvesting
When we talk about harvesting methods, there are two main methods: manual and mechanical. Both methods have their advantages, but it all depends on the desired end result and the type of grape. Grapes can be harvested manually or mechanically.
- Hand picking: Workers pick the grapes by hand. This method allows for a more selective harvest, ensuring that only the best grapes are selected. Often used for high quality or boutique wines.
- Mechanical harvesting: Machines shake or pick the grapes from the vine. This method is more efficient and is usually used for larger vineyards and wines that are produced in larger quantities.
3. Initial sorting and processing
After the harvest, the key processes that affect the final quality of the wine begin. Quality wine requires careful sorting to remove unripe, overripe or damaged grapes and any leaves or stalks. This ensures that only the best quality fruit is used, which is key to making quality wine.4. Dismemberment and crushing
After sorting, the grapes are usually de-stemmed and crushed.Destemming removes the stems from the grapes, as the stems can impart astringent tannins to the wine.
Crushing breaks the skin of the grape berries and releases the juice. This juice, along with the skins (and sometimes the seeds) will continue fermentation. These steps are the foundation of winemaking, as they directly affect the release of the juices, tannins and aromas of the grapes, which are key to the final taste and texture of the wine.
5. Start of fermentation
This is the heart of the winemaking process, where sugar is converted into alcohol, and it also gives wine its unique character. Once the juice is exposed, fermentation can begin. Yeast, either natural or added, uses up the sugar in the grape juice and produces alcohol. The duration of fermentation and whether skins are involved (as in red wine production) will significantly affect the character of the wine.In short, the wine harvest is not just the picking of grapes. It is the beginning of a carefully orchestrated process that turns grapes into one of the world's most prized beverages. Decisions made during harvest will reverberate throughout the winemaking process, influencing the final quality and style of the wine.
Slovenian wine harvest equipped with Pharsol Protect
On the lush soil of Slovenia, where the art of viticulture grows richer with each season, the wine harvest has a special meaning. With origins dating back to ancient times, Slovenian wine harvests tell stories of tradition, precision and unwavering dedication. As vineyard workers weave their way through the rows of grapes, rich aromas fill the air, signaling the birth of a new vintage. But behind this picturesque scene is meticulous work and potential hazards that can only be mitigated with the right protective equipment.Ensuring safety in the vineyards
In the complex process of harvesting a vineyard, safety should never come second. The unpredictable nature of harvesting tasks together with the varied terrain of Slovenian vineyards requires equipment that goes beyond functionality. It must prioritize the well-being of every worker. Having the right protective equipment not only ensures a smooth work routine, but also drastically reduces potential hazards. Whether it's the challenge of early morning harvests, the proximity of machinery or the meticulous manual picking process, every task has its own set of risks. At Pharsol Protect, we believe that a well-equipped worker is a protected worker.Increase your harvesting productivity with the right work equipment
Pharsol Gloves: Precision is key during harvesting and our gloves are designed for just that. Strike a balance between dexterity and protection as you work each cluster, protecting your hands from the elements. Our gloves not only protect, but also allow precise and gentle handling of the grapes.Pharsol caps: Stay one step ahead of the merciless sun. Designed for optimal UV protection, the caps combine functionality and design to ensure professionals stay protected from the strong sun.
Pharsol Sunglasses: Clarity is key when choosing the best clusters. UV-resistant and designed to reduce glare, professionals can distinguish and select each grape with unwavering precision.
Pharsol shirts: Made from moisture wicking fabrics. They ensure you stay cool and mobile, even during the most demanding harvest hours. Airy and comfortable, ideal for long hours in the vineyard.
Pharsol work pants : Designed for durability without compromising on comfort, they protect against the rigors of the terrain and offer the wearer unparalleled ease of movement. With plenty of pockets for all the tools and personal items you need at hand all the time.
Pharsol work boots: Protection and stability. With a non-slip base adapted to the terrain of the vineyards and a waterproof exterior, move with confidence on any section.
Pharsol work vest: Efficiency is the key to a successful harvest. With many pockets to store tools and other necessities, essential tools are always within reach.
Pharsol Knee Pads: Made with the modern vineyard worker in mind. Important for knee protection when working close to the ground.
Pharsol Protective Masks: Masks are used in post-harvest operations for a variety of reasons, primarily to protect against dust and particles, to prevent inhalation of harmful chemicals, and to protect against mold and bacteria.
In the viticulture process, which begins with the vineyard and ends with a corked bottle of this noble drop, taking care of the safety and health of the workers is crucial. All stages of production, from harvest to wine maturation, bring their own unique challenges and potential hazards.
Many of us encounter wine when it is already in the bottle and perhaps we do not think about what is hidden behind the glass of this drink. However, winemaking is a complex process that requires careful planning, knowledge and commitment, as well as adequate protection for those involved in each phase.
The use of protective and work equipment in pre-harvest and post-harvest operations is only one aspect of this holistic concern for safety. It provides protection against many potential hazards, from inhalation of dust and chemicals to protection against mold and other microorganisms. This is crucial not only for the health and well-being of the workers, but also for the quality of the wine itself.
