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Analyze
Winemaker, Mike Calabro, measures the sugar content of grapes using a refractometer. The grapes not only need to be picked at the proper time of their life cycle, but also at the right time of the day to ensure the acids and sugars are all in perfect balance.
Pick
For White Wine...
In early September, the green/yellow grapes are picked by hand when they reach 21-23 Brix (a measurement of sugar). Typically the grapes are picked at night under large lights to ensure that we get coller grapes at a consistent sugar level. "Late Harvest" grapes are left on the vine until late October-early November (26-29 Brix); thus Late Harvest wines have a higher sugar content.
For Red Wine...
In late September through October, the red grapes are picked by hand when they reach 23-25 Brix. The red grapes are also picked at night.
NOTE: Some of this content was adapted from Joseph Filippi Winery in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, who has taught us some key elements about the wine-making process.
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