Harvesting Your Own Grapes

The process of wine-making starts in grape planting and the growing process involved. The taste of the wine is greatly dependent on the quality of the grape used. The primary concern in planting grapes is the soil, which depends on location. Just like in the real estate industry, location greatly affects the quality of the wine or, rather, the grapes used to produce it. The grapevines should not only grow in the right types of soil but also it should be located in a place that has a direct exposure to sunlight. Photosynthesis, which is an important factor in developing the vines and fruits, will help in filling the grapes with sugar. Once the process of fermentation is finished, the sugar will then change into alcohol. Another important factor for consideration is the amount of sunlight distributed in the vines. All sides of the vines should receive the same amount of sunlight.

Wine Grapes

Additionally, the vineyard must not be located near a drainage system, as grapes do not respond well to wet areas. If there is a lack of nutrition in the soil and, consequently, a production of small-sized grape fruits, the owner should not be alarmed. Ideally, smaller sized grapes are best for wine-making. However, using compost instead of fertilizer will help for the grapes’ growth. For a larger crop, the grapes should be grown in rows about eight feet apart. However, for smaller vines, they can be planted as narrowly as six feet apart. Note that a large vineyard has possibilities of a smaller harvest due to the presence unwanted pests. Birds and insects are the common culprit for this. A grapevine usually yields a gallon of wine. However, for a larger harvest, it is advisable to add some more grapevines. This necessitates a proper installation of the trellis so that the vines can properly climb and grow. The soil should be loosened and have a larger hole so the water can be easily drained. In the first year of the grapevines, the shoots should be tied to the trellis using string. Wires are not advisable to use since they can damage the vines. During harvest times, a hydrometer will be needed to precisely measure the density of liquids present in the grapes and to determine their sugar content. When they have achieved an ideal density or gravity of 1.105, the time has come to harvest them.