ThePortForum.com

Veraison is a term that I have seen mentioned in a number of texts and conversations, most recently by Fred in his thread at viewtopic.php?t=405 (I would post a link but my BlackBerry won't let me).

This is a term that I know I should know, but don't have a clear understanding of.

Could someone provide me with a concise explanation of what veraison means and therefore how the timing of it can give early indications as to the timing and / or quality of a harvest?

Many thanks,

Alex

There Isn't an English word for Véraison .
It means changing of the colour .
Experience shows that when the grapes change colour , the sugar content rises dramaticaly and the acid levels drop .
This is the signal for the wine maker to measure sugar & acid levels in grams per litre .
But this isn't the whole story . Ya can't forget the tannins . . .
- Once tannins change from green to brown
- There's an acceptable sugar/acid balance
« It's time to pick them grapes »

Thanks

Alex

There Isn't an English word for Véraison

But in Portugal I believe it's known as pintor

I'm not sure if the timing gives any solid clue as to the quality of the vintage, but it seems to give the first clear indication as to whether it will be an early or late harvest.

If all the bunches of grapes change colour at the same time, then that seems to be regarded as a good omen.

Tom