As climate change causes hotter, longer summers across Europe, vineyards are adopting new harvesting methods to protect grape quality. Night harvesting has become increasingly common, helping winemakers preserve flavor and freshness. Curious about this shift? Below, we explore why vineyards are harvesting at night, the benefits involved, and how climate change is transforming traditional farming schedules.
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Why are vineyards harvesting grapes at night now?
Vineyards are harvesting grapes at night mainly to combat the effects of rising temperatures caused by climate change. Cooler night temperatures help preserve grape freshness, prevent spoilage, and maintain the desired flavor profile. This practice started gaining popularity around 2019 as a way to adapt to hotter, longer summers in southern Europe.
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What benefits does night harvesting bring to wine quality?
Night harvesting helps keep grapes cooler, which preserves their natural acidity and flavor. It also reduces the risk of heat stress that can damage grapes during the day. Overall, this method results in higher-quality wine with better aroma, balance, and freshness, making it a smart adaptation to climate change.
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How does climate change affect traditional farming schedules?
Climate change has led to hotter temperatures and longer summers, disrupting traditional farming schedules that relied on daylight hours. To adapt, farmers are shifting harvest times to cooler periods, such as nighttime, to protect crops and ensure they meet quality standards despite changing environmental conditions.
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Are other crops being harvested at night too?
Yes, some farmers are also harvesting other crops at night, especially those sensitive to heat or prone to spoilage. Night harvesting is becoming a broader strategy in agriculture to adapt to climate change, helping to maintain crop quality and reduce losses across various types of produce.
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Is night harvesting a new practice or traditional?
While night harvesting is gaining popularity due to climate change, it is also a traditional method used in some cultures for centuries. Recently, modern climate challenges have revived this practice as a practical solution to protect crop quality in hotter environments.