For winemakers, the harvest is the highlight of their working year. Swiss Wine Promotion (SWP), the national promotional body for Swiss wines, once again gave wine lovers the opportunity to experience this event up close. On the weekends of September 21–22 and 28–29, wineries in all six wine-producing regions opened their doors.
During the fourth edition of this popular event, they welcomed more than 600 people, including families, friends, adults and children. For a few hours, participants were able to lend a hand during the grape harvest and experience this emotional moment together with the winegrowers.
Direct contact for winegrowers
Winemaker Henri Grosjean from Caves du Château d’Auvernier has taken part in the event several times. He appreciates being able to share what he considers the best time of the year with interested parties. “For once, it’s not about the processed product, but about the raw material that comes directly from the vineyard,” says Grosjean.
As a winemaker, he is proud to show off the vineyards – even after a difficult season like the current one. “It’s very important to me to be able to explain to consumers directly how wine is made,” says Grosjean, who is the 15th generation of his family to run the winery.
Fascinating insights into winemaking
The journey of discovery didn’t end in the vineyard for the participants of ‘At the heart of the harvest’: afterwards, the newly-minted grape pickers visited the cellar and tasted grape juice and must there. They gained exciting insights into the art of winemaking. During the subsequent meal, there was plenty of time to chat with the winemakers in a relaxed atmosphere and to taste local wines.
Thirty vineyards from all over Switzerland took part in the fourth ‘At the Heart of the Harvest’ event: seven in Valais, eight in Vaud, seven in German-speaking Switzerland, two in Geneva, two in Ticino and four in the Three Lakes region.
An authentic experience
Nicolas Graber from Cave de Genève enthuses about the friendly and cheerful atmosphere in the vineyards. “Once the grapes were harvested, we transported them to a traditional wine press. There, participants had the unique opportunity to stomp on the grapes as they used to do in the old days, which gave the experience an authentic touch.”
The enthusiasm of the participants and the positive response from the winemakers confirm the success of the event. SWP will continue to organize events that not only promote the discovery of Swiss wines but also intensify direct contact between winemakers and wine lovers.
Carmen Stalder, Swiss Wine Promotion
Photo Credits: © Swiss Wine Promotion