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Let’s set the scene. Follow me. 7:00 AM – Dawn in the Vineyard The day begins with the first light of dawn. You arrive at the estate: cool, misty air…


Let’s set the scene. Follow me.

7:00 AM – Dawn in the Vineyard

The day begins with the first light of dawn. You arrive at the estate: cool, misty air wraps around the endless rows of vines. After a quick coffee with the team of novice harvesters, your host shares the history of the estate and gives you your first instructions. Equipped with pruning shears, you timidly head for the vines.

8:00 AM – Hands in the Grapes

Now, the adventure truly begins. Every bunch of grapes you pick is destined for the estate’s next vintage—what a responsibility! Determined to do your best, you chat with fellow harvesters along the rows. Some tease you for your pace, while others, lagging behind, envy your skill. The bunches pile up steadily in the baskets. The porters amaze you, carrying the weight of a year’s work with grace and ease. It’s mesmerizing, almost like a dance.

The season of harvest: little hands, big traditions!

10:30 AM – Well-Deserved Break

After a few hours of work, it’s time for a break. The estate owner knows just how to delight the palates of these novice winemakers. Fresh bread, cheese, charcuterie, and grape juice, all locally sourced—just what you need! The group relaxes, sharing stories about the region and its wines, and you quickly learn that every vineyard has its secrets.

11:00 AM – Back to work, now with songs

Refreshed, you return to the rows for the final harvest. The sun is now warming the grapes and lifting everyone’s spirits. Buckets fill quickly. Around you, conversations spark about wine, terroir, and the beauty of the landscape. The rhythm of the shears becomes almost automatic, and you feel a sense of pride (and so do we!). Suddenly, singing breaks out: “I see trees of green, red roses too…” (and if you’re not hearing Louis Armstrong’s voice in your head right now, we need to talk!).

It’s official—you’re part of the family now.

12:30 PM – The harvester’s feast

Lunch is served! The phrase everyone’s been waiting for since the distant church bells struck noon. A long table is set in the cellar, and a feast awaits. This is the epitome of conviviality. Local dishes come one after another, naturally paired with the estate’s wines. You savor, laugh, and share stories—life feels simple and perfect.

3:00 PM – The Winery Tour and Tasting

After lunch, the winemaker takes you on a tour of the winery, revealing the secrets of winemaking and barrel aging. The day ends with a wine tasting, where you compare different vintages, appreciating the aromas and understanding the journey from the morning’s harvest to the final bottle.

5:00 PM – Wrapping up the day

The day gently winds down. You leave with your head full of memories, perhaps with a bottle of wine in hand, but most importantly with the feeling of having lived an extraordinary, authentic experience. You’ve witnessed the heart of winemaking, participated in a millennia-old tradition, and made new friends. One thing is certain—you’ll be back next year!

Harvest calendar in the Bordeaux vineyards & a few surprises:

 

Immeuble Gironde – CS 92015
1 et 4 Terrasse du 8 mai 45
33076 Bordeaux Cedex

Primped up by a Gironde-wide collaborative editorial team, welcome to Pulpe!