Ouverture des Vendanges

Ouverture des Vendanges in the Champagne

The "Ouverture des Vendanges" marks the start of the Champagne harvest season, a significant event in the Champagne region of France. This tradition has deep-rooted historical and cultural significance and signals the start of a busy period that is crucial to the quality and success of Champagne.

The association C.I.V.C. announces the date of the vintages.

No harvest may take place before this date. Basically, the aim is to find the optimum balance, taking into account the annual climatic factors, the behaviour of the vines and the yield, among other things, in order to ultimately guarantee optimum quality. This timing therefore varies from year to year. Generally, the date is in September, sometimes in August in the case of unusually early ripening or occasionally in October if ripening is very slow.

Historical background

The harvesting of Champagne grapes has a long history dating back to the 17th century, when the region made a name for itself as a production centre for sparkling wines. Historically, the harvest time was heavily dependent on the weather conditions and the quality of the grapes. The "Ouverture des Vendanges" was therefore not only a symbolic act, but also a practical sign that the grapes had reached the ideal point of ripeness to ensure the highest quality of the final product.

The start of the harvest

As a rule, the Ouverture des Vendanges takes place in the first days of September, sometimes as early as the end of August, depending on the weather conditions of the respective vintage. The exact timing varies depending on the year and region, as the ripening of the grapes is strongly influenced by the weather. During the harvest, the grapes are carefully selected and picked by hand to ensure that only the best grapes are used for the production of Champagne.

Traditional celebrations

The Ouverture des Vendanges is often celebrated with festivities. In the Champagne region, these are festive events where winegrowers, producers and local communities gather to celebrate the start of the harvest. These celebrations often include ceremonies such as the "Sève de la vigne" (juice of the vine), where the first juice of the freshly harvested grapes is tasted, as well as traditional music, dancing and a festive meal. These events are not only an opportunity to celebrate, but also a chance for the community to come together and honour the hard work of the past months.

Important considerations during harvesting

Harvest time is a critical phase for champagne production. The grapes must be harvested at the perfect degree of ripeness in order to achieve the desired balance of sugar and acidity, which is crucial for the production of high-quality champagne. Harvesting too early or too late can affect the quality of the champagne. Winegrowers and producers therefore use extensive tests and analyses to determine the optimum harvest time.

Quality and workmanship

After the harvest, the grapes are transported to the cellar, where they are gently pressed. The press is specially designed to extract the juice from the grapes without releasing bitter substances or other undesirable components. The resulting must is then fermented in barrels or stainless steel tanks. This first step in the process is crucial to the quality of the final product, as it lays the foundation for the flavour and aromatic characteristics of the champagne.

Challenges and innovations

The conditions for champagne production have changed in recent years. Climate change has had an impact on ripening times and the quality of the grapes. Winegrowers and champagne houses have begun to research new methods and techniques to adapt to these changes. This includes the use of innovative cultivation techniques, improved irrigation systems and new varieties that are better adapted to the changing climatic conditions.

Conclusion

The Ouverture des Vendanges is much more than just the start of the harvest season - it symbolises the link between tradition and innovation in champagne production. The careful selection and harvesting of the grapes during this period lays the foundation for the quality and character of the champagne we enjoy. The festivities surrounding this occasion not only celebrate the start of a busy period, but also the skill and passion that goes into making champagne.

 

 

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