In Tinos, the harvest is not just an agricultural activity; it’s a cultural ritual deeply intertwined with the island’s history and economy. The local vintners, with their profound knowledge of the land and its climate, carefully monitor the ripening of the grapes and the weather conditions to choose the optimal time to begin the harvest. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that only the best quality grapes are used, which, in turn, contributes to the high quality of Tinos wines.
The island’s climate, characterized by mild winds and ample sunshine, provides the perfect conditions for vine cultivation. The robust local varieties thrive here, each adding its unique character to the wines of Tinos. These grapes are not just fruits; they are the bearers of the island’s heritage and the carriers of its environmental legacy.
Vaptistis Winery: A Center of Wine Culture
At the heart of this vinicultural celebration is Vaptistis Winery, a name synonymous with Tinos wine tradition. During the harvest season, which typically runs from August 30 to September 25, Vaptistis Winery opens its doors to enthusiasts eager to experience the harvest firsthand.
Arrival and Welcome
The experience begins early in the morning, as guests are welcomed warmly upon arrival and given an introduction to the history of the vineyard and the intricate process of harvesting. It’s recommended that visitors come prepared with sun hats, long sleeves, and closed shoes for protection during the day’s activities.
Grape Harvest
Guests then proceed to the vineyards where they can pick grapes under the guidance of experienced staff. This hands-on experience is not only about harvesting but also learning the subtleties that define quality wine production.
Grape Collection
Following the picking, guests gather their harvest and take it to the winery, where they can participate in the traditional and exhilarating process of stomping the grapes barefoot.
Wine Press Experience
Guests enter the winepress barefoot and stomp on the grapes with their naked feet. The “mousto” (grape must) is then extracted and placed in tanks/barrels.
Wine Tasting Experience (standard program)
After the exertion, the wine-tasting session is a welcome respite where guests can relax and sample some of Vaptistis Winery’s finest wines. This tasting is paired with a platter of exquisite local delicacies such as cured meats, cheeses, and other regional products, providing a well-rounded sensory experience of Tinos’s gastronomical offerings.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
The harvest day ends with guests departing with not just memories but a deeper appreciation of the wine production process. The experience costs €195 per person, which includes all activities from grape picking to wine tasting.
The grape harvest in Tinos is more than an event; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and nature’s gifts. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the island’s heritage and its people, providing insight into the meticulous craft of wine-making that Tinos is proud to uphold.
Note: Harvest events will take place from August 30 to September 25. Interested individuals can send their inquiries if they wish to participate in a group. The specific days of the harvest events will be announced in early summer, in June, due to weather conditions.