Harvest season is one of the most exciting times of the year in Napa Valley. This year’s official harvest kick-off date was August 7 when Mumm Napa began harvesting their Pinot Noir grapes to make their famous sparkling wines!
The harvest season lasts about three months and involves different stages of grape picking. During the first stage, the grapes destined for sparkling wines are picked. Next, white wine grapes are collected. Grapes used for making red wines take longer to mature, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, and are harvested last.
Harvest is also the time of year when wineries love to celebrate. Annual winemaker dinners abound to showcase not only wonderful wines, but they also combine food, music and tours to create an amazing experience.
As you travel through the Valley, you may realize you hear cannon noise coming from the vineyards. Not to worry; firing the cannons is an easy way to scare off the birds who are trying to enjoy some of the great fruit! Interested in observing the hustle of vineyard activity? We suggest a trip before the end of September (just to be safe!).
If grape stomping is on your bucket list, this is the time of year to visit Wine Country – advanced reservations are a must!
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