From Vine to Wine: The Life of a Grape

Ever wondered what your favorite glass of wine was doing before it met your lips? Let’s follow the journey of a grape, from hanging on the vine to swirling in your glass.

1. Bud to Bloom 
It all begins in early spring. Grape vines wake up from their winter nap and start to bud. Tiny green shoots appear, eventually turning into clusters of baby grapes. It’s like nature’s version of pre-gaming.

2. The Glow-Up (Veraison)
As summer heats up, grapes go through a makeover. They change color: green to purple for reds, or stay golden-green for whites. This stage is called *veraison* and it marks the start of ripening. Sugar levels rise, acidity balances out and things are getting juicy.

3. Harvest Time 
Once the grapes are perfectly ripe, it’s go-time. Hand-picked or machine-harvested, timing is everything. Too early or too late can affect the whole vibe of the wine. Winemakers are basically DJs of the vineyard.

4. Crush & Ferment 
Grapes are crushed (gently), then left to ferment. Yeast works its magic, turning sugar into alcohol. This is where grape juice becomes... wine. Iconic.

5. Rest & Age
The young wine chills out in tanks, barrels, or bottles developing character. Reds might age longer, whites are usually quicker. Like us, wine gets better with a little patience.

6. Sip Happens 
Finally, it’s bottled and shared at dinner, on your couch, or during those "just because" moments. One grape’s journey, your new favorite pour.