Veraison in the Vineyard

It’s the end of August, which is an exciting time in our wine region. Why may you ask? Because this is around the time we start seeing magic happen in the vineyards – we’re talking about veraison!

So what exactly is veraison? This French viticulture term represents the beginning of the ripening process in wine grapes. This is when the vines switch focus from putting energy into vegetative growth (growing leaves and shoots) into ripening the fruit. It is the transition period that occurs when the grapes start to change colors and sweeten. As the grape clusters continue to ripen, the acidity levels begin to decrease while sugar levels (also known as “Brix”) increase.

Once veraison begins, it can take anywhere from 30-70 days for the grapes to become fully ripe and ready for harvest. In our vineyards on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, we are starting to see the first signs of ripening in some of the grapes, like Pinot Noir.

Although not the very first of our grapes to ripen, Pinot Noir is known to be one of the varieties that ripen early and unevenly. As you may notice from the photos, there can be clusters with ripened berries mixed with berries that haven’t even begun veraison and are still green!

Interested in learning more about our vineyards and seeing veraison up close and personal? Check out our Estate & Wine Tours hosted at our Suttons Bay location. Public and private tours are available summer through fall.

Pinot Noir grapes changing color.

OUR BEST HOLIDAY SPECIALS

Receive 20% off our already low off-season rates. Plus other great deals!

TRADIONAL RACLETTE DINNER

Join us at Bistro Polaris with our friends from Leelanau Cheese as we honor this delicious culinary tradition.

People clinking wine glasses over a table with a Thanksgiving feast.

THANKSGIVING DINNER TO GO

Let us do the work for you this year! Our culinary team has created an elevated menu based on this traditional feast for you to enjoy at home.

Example of fall floral arrangements for Brunch and Blooms Workshop.

BRUNCH AND BLOOMS
WINE WORKSHOP

Gather with friends or meet some new ones with our new Wine & Workshop Series at Bistro Polaris.

LIVE MUSIC AT BISTRO POLARIS

Enjoy the cool vibes and smooth sounds of Zack Meyers while you dine. Thursdays, 6 PM-8 PM through December.

SUNDAY BRUNCH ON THE FARM

Enjoy a three-course brunch at the newly-imagined Bistro Polaris, where farm meets fork and vine meets glass.