The Harvest in Utiel-Requena

After the Harvest Festival, last Sunday September, in the municipality of Requena some wineries have already started the harvest; the first grapes intended are for sparkling wines, later white wines and then at the end, the red grapes, musts and wines intended for D.O. are harvested highlights for this great quality of the grapes that will have the result of the lack of rain that has prevented the vineyards of the emergence of pests and diseases.

The first grapes to be collected are grapes of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties (early variety) for the production of Cava and white wine; these grapes are harvested early and phased manner by parcelling extension to avoid a very high graduation. Harvesting of the Macabeo and Tempranillo grapes begin few days later, the Bobal (autochthonous) variety in about five days and variety Tardana (which occurs in upland areas and delay in the maturation process) is harvested in early October

Bobal variety has been grown in this area since ancient times, as confirmed by the various archaeological sites; were the Iberians, almost 2,700 years ago, who laid the foundations of a wine culture whose tradition has managed to remain continuously over several millennia; confirmed by the abundant references to wine production in the area and their trade throughout Western Europe during various historical periods. Antiquity and Continuity are the two attributes that have resulted in a geographical, human and cultural unique space, which has like a symbol and expression of its evolution the native Bobal Grape Variety, of great international prestige in recent years.

Therefore, the wine has great appeal in this region, contributing to the appreciation of the Wine Industry and its associated cultural heritage, which is the main engine of its economy. Among the seasonal attractions we can found:

-Night Harvestshttp://utielrequena.org/en/vendimia-nocturna-en-pago-de-tharsys/

-Wine Route.http://www.rutavino.com/ver/3/Ruta-del-Vino-de-Utiel-Requena.html

-Wine Fair http://www.ferevin.com/

-Harvest Festival http://www.fiestavendimiarequena.com/

© FernandoC.