The grapes are changing – and the clock is ticking… It’s happening! Veraison has started in the vineyard – the grapes are softening, changing colour, and accumulating sugar. That means harvest is not far off.
Last year, when veraison hit in the second week of January, we were picking by late February. And this year looks to be running on a similar schedule.
In Heathcote’s warm climate, the rule of thumb is 45 days from veraison to harvest – so we’re expecting picking to begin late February to early March.
Our 2026 shiraz crop is looking good – small berries, loose bunches, beautifully even. Not a heavy crop, though, and many growers in the region are reporting lighter yields.
Veraison is the physiological turning point in a grape's life cycle. The berries soften, their skins begin to take on that deep, signature purple hue, and the vine shifts its energy from growth to ripening. Most importantly, this is when the grapes begin to accumulate the sugars and flavour compounds that define a great Shiraz.
If you are planning to make Shiraz this year, now is the time to secure your fruit. Given the lighter yields in the region, fruit is expected to move quickly.
Over the coming weeks, we will begin posting regular Baumé readings. These measurements track the sugar levels in the grapes, giving you a real-time look at how the fruit is maturing so you can time your winemaking process perfectly.
Keep an eye on this space or follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest vineyard updates and ripening reports. The clock is ticking!