Edition of September 7, 2026

Bordeaux opens the 2026 harvest with Merlot already being picked

Bordeaux opened its 2026 harvest with Merlot already being picked on September 4, 2026, while Cabernet Sauvignon was maturing more slowly after rain altered berry weight, juice volume and malic acid in some parcels, according to ISVV.

Source: vinetur.com The VintageVineyard and Cellar

Bordeaux wine: How does hand harvesting work at a Saint-Émilion classified growth?

How hand harvesting is carried out at a classified growth in Saint-Émilion, seen from inside the vineyard during the harvest.

Source: sudouest.fr Saint-Émilion The VintageRules and Classifications

Does dealcoholisation erase terroir?

Grands Chais de France began researching alcohol-free wine in the 2000s, released its first cuvées in 2015 and has operated dealcoholisation units in Bordeaux since 2021. The group says alcohol-free wine could eventually represent 10% of sales.

Source: terredevins.com Vineyard and Cellar