The vineyard in autumn
Harvest (September / October)
The harvest dates vary depending on the vineyards and are set by the Champagne interprofessional body based on objective criteria to ensure optimal quality. The goal is to harvest healthy grapes, before any risk of rot, and perfectly ripe.
The quality of future wines relies on the balance between sugar content and natural acidity levels. Regular measurements are taken in the weeks leading up to the harvest to monitor the evolution of these two parameters.
In Champagne, harvesting machines are prohibited; grape picking is done exclusively by hand. The clusters are then transported to the press as quickly as possible to prevent any risk of oxidation.