Guest blog by Matt Merrill of Pomar Junction Vineyard and Winery
The vineyards in the Paso Robles AVA are currently transitioning into a different phase of growth. The grapes on the vines are coming out of a period of berry growth and into the exciting period of berry ripening. This viticulture period is known as véraison in the wine world. Véraison is a French term that means “the onset of ripening”, although it is more known for the change of color of the grape berries. For red grape varietals the change in color is easy to spot as the green clusters have a few berries change to a light pink color. Those berries will darken and the rest of the cluster will follow suit until the entire cluster is fully darkened and the grape skins begin to soften. The white grape varietals are little more difficult to spot if they are going through véraison. The biggest change is the feel of the berries as they begin to soften, but the clusters also begin to yellow a bit.
Besides the incomparable beauty of the clusters of multi-colored grapes hanging full on the vines, it is an exciting time in the vineyard because this signals that the upcoming harvest is approaching. The earlier the onset of véraison, typically the earlier harvest will be. This season the change in color is on the early side in Paso Robles. This has winemakers gearing up for what could be an early harvest. And while we can’t believe it’s been almost a whole year already, we look forward to the hustle, bustle and excitement harvest brings.
Touriga Nacional at Pomar Junction Vineyard and Winery