Night Harvesting
All grapes are picked in the 'cool of the night' to preserve their freshness and aromatic qualities, resulting in vibrant, elegant wines that capture the essence of the region.
Why Harvest at Night
Helps to preserve their natural acidity, resulting in wines that are fresher, brighter, and more vibrant. The cooler temperatures also reduce oxidation, protecting the grapes' flavour and colour and minimising the risk of spoilage during transport.
The cooler fruit requires less energy for processing and refrigeration, contributing to a more sustainable winemaking process.
More Than a Harvest
Night harvesting is also a remarkable logistical operation. For approximately ten weeks each vintage, harvesters, machine operators, truck drivers, vineyard crews, and winery teams work around the clock to ensure every parcel of fruit is picked at precisely the right moment.
For viticulturist and managing owner Andy Ferreira, harvest is the culmination of an entire year's work in the vineyard. Constant monitoring of vine growth, weather patterns, and fruit development allows harvest decisions to be made with precision, ensuring each vineyard is picked at its peak.
Vineyard Management: Riverace Viticulture
Each site is carefully managed by Andy and his team who have more than 115 years of combined regional knowledge, ensuring every block reaches its full potential.