September is getting closer and for winemakers it is a decisive month for the fate of any winery. In reality, the harvest is much more than that. It is a moment full of charm and history. For centuries, it has been a social ceremony of primary importance, an occasion for aggregation, sharing and celebration.
The first evidence of the grape harvest dates back to 10,000 BC. in the areas of the Fertile Crescent. Here the grape harvest was part of a real religious ceremony thanking the gods for the fruits reserved by the earth to men.
In Ancient Rome, the so-called “Vinalia Rustica” was celebrated on August 19th: a festival in honor of Jupiter who ritually began the harvest. Interestingly, on those days, all other activities were suspended. Therefore the entire family or family circle gathered to dedicate themselves solely to work in the fields. Hence the social and convivial character of this activity, also designed to unite, to celebrate and to spend time together.
Lastly, till the ’60s, the grape harvest was one of the few opportunity for social meeting between boys and girls.
Every year in Puglia there are many wineries that take part in the organized event “Cantine Aperte in Vendemmia”. It’s an unmissable opportunity for all enthusiasts who want to discover the secrets of the grape harvest at the local wineries. Thus visitors have the opportunity to do a tour of the vineyards, enjoy a guided tasting of the wines and learn the tricks of the business directly from the producers.
Speaking of Apulian wines, they are among the most awarded wines on the Italian peninsula. In 2023, the wine guide Gambero Rosso gave “3 glasses” ( the highest vote ) to 26 wines of Puglia. Join our tour and you’ll have a taste of delicious local wines, you’ll visit family-run wineries and more.