Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year, mainly because it is time for vendemmia. The tradition of grape harvesting in Italy ushers in celebration and happiness. In the Roman Empire, it was a way to pay tribute to Bacchus, god of agriculture, wine, and fertility. Today, vendemmia is without a doubt one of the most interesting practices you can experience in Italy.
In some regions, mostly in southern Italy, the harvest occurs in September; in Northern Italy, farmers wait until November. Starting in late September, grapes are picked, selected, and put to ferment in large botti, or barrels. Vendemmia is a very complex process. Winemakers carefully balance the proportion of sugar in the grapes to guarantee the correct fermentation process.
