From late August through October the valleys come alive. Grapes are picked at dawn, crush pads hum, and the whole place smells of fermenting fruit.
What makes harvest special
Watch fruit arrive on the crush pad, taste fermenting juice straight from the tank, walk rows heavy with fruit and join a harvest dinner.
Plan ahead
Harvest is peak season: weekends fill early and wineries are busy. We use our relationships to secure the visits that make the season memorable.
Good to know
Book 8 to 12 weeks ahead for September and October weekends
Weekdays are calmer and often better
Crush activity depends on each year's weather
Ideal for
Wine lovers, photographers and anyone who wants to see how wine is really made.
Sample itinerary
9:00 Early pickup
9:30 Crush-pad visit
11:30 Barrel and fermentation tasting
1:00 Harvest lunch
3:00 Vineyard walk
5:00 Return
Frequently asked questions
Can we pick grapes?
Some wineries offer it; availability depends on the year.
When exactly is harvest?
Usually late August to late October; sparkling grapes are picked first.