The Wine Harvest in Provence
Grape picking tends to begin in September
In September, the tranquil countryside of Provence undergoes a dramatic change. Heads pop up in the vineyards, farmers stoically take over the departmental roads with tractors pulling the harvest to the coopérative. It's the month of the Vendange!
It was in Provence where the first grapevines in France were planted. Greek settlers brought them in the 6th century BC, when they occupied Provence. It's doubtful that such history is on the farmers' minds, while they wait for their turn at the entrance of the coopérative.
Not all wines in Provence are processed in the coopératives. In fact, the majority are developed in proper domaines, whose labels are becoming increasingly sought after and respected. It's just that the farmers with smaller plots, who take advantage of the communal process, are the most visible during the vendange. And the heavy aroma around the coopératives is unavoidable during this month of harvest.
When we think of Provence wine, we think of rosé, the light pink or peach-colored wine that, more than any other liquid, captures the sparkling sunlight of the region. Indeed, the nine appellations (registered trade names) of southern Provence consist of 70% rosé. Contrary to popular belief, rosé in Provence is not a mix of red and white wine, but a wine produced from particular grape varieties, such as Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. The grapes are of a red color. After a brief fermentation the skins are removed to arrive at a clearer color, resembling the ochre terrain around.
When a year sees lots of sunshine and little rain, you know that a good vintage is on it's way. With many others, we'll wait for the first taste in November. Cheers!
