What is the night harvest?

The night harvest is a term that refers to the collection and harvesting of the grape that is done at night, taking advantage of the low night temperatures. At night there is a change in temperature, since they drop and cool down, and that is noticeable in our raw material, no matter how few degrees it drops. This change in temperature causes the grain to get rid of all the heat it has accumulated after the hours of sunlight during the day.

In our Heredad Segura Viudas, many of the grape suppliers with whom we collaborate practice night harvesting. One of the main advantages of harvesting grapes without sun is based on better temperature control. Heat and high temperatures can lead to high oxidation of the must, unwanted maceration or fermentation under uncontrolled, spontaneous conditions, both in red and white grapes, but especially in white grapes whose musts are more sensitive to oxidation. With excess heat, the grape loses aromas, which is why harvesting at night, when temperatures are milder, allows the grape to retain those characteristic aromas with greater capacity.

TIME AS A DIFFERENTIATING FACTOR

In areas of high temperatures, the night harvest can make a difference when making the wine. During the day, each grain gains temperature when exposed to the sun with temperatures as high as 35 degrees. According to experts, this could cause an increase in its enzymatic activity and therefore a dilation of the skin. In this state, the grapes tend to open when touched, which prevents the grapes from reaching the winery in perfect condition.