Size matters apparently. So does color! Veraison is that time of year when we look for the largest, most ripe grapes and start gearing up for harvest.
Winemaker Matt from Kendall-Jackson explains in his blog that veraison is a physiological stage in the vine life cycle that is marked by a change in the appearance and hardness of the grape berry. In the case of both white and red grapes used in winemaking, the onset of veraison marks the end of grape skin cell division. Once it is finished, the grape skin cell number is fixed. A smaller number of skin cells generally means smaller berries.
He goes on to say that berry size is important. A small berry has a better skin to juice ratio that ensures a better concentration of flavor and structure, something that’s very important in quality winemaking.
Everything you wanted to know about veraison… but were afraid to ask.
