If there is a 100% sure sign that summer is over, it is the start of the grape-picking season. It’s a time of loads of work, but also of celebration for wine-makers. Fruit-picking is a period of joy and excitement, if the harvest is rich and of high quality.

Fruit-picking came to a start in Bessa Valley winery this week, too. Despite the increased level of rainfalls in spring and summer, leading oenologists in the winery are proud with a good harvest. “What is special about this year’s harvest is the extraordinary Syrah fruits we have”, shared Ivalyo Antonov, general manager of the winery.

Every harvest is a critical period, demanding quick decisions: “We are having some difficulties in picking, because of the weather conditions, but fortunately, we have some significant experience and good relations with the worker. This saves us a ton of shocks and unpleasant situations”, said Mr. Antonov.

The harvest will continue for a month. More than 150 workers will pick fruits from all four sorts that grow in the valley – Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah.

A total of 500 – 600 tones of grapes are expected to be picked this year.

After the fruits are gathered, they go through a careful selection. Only the best fruits, literally chosen grape by grape, will get to the fermentation tanks. “In Bessa Valley we stick to the natural process and wine-making technologies. Our wines – Enira and Enira Reserva – are exported in Europe, America and Asia and we cannot compromise with quality. Only strict adherence to principles in winemaking, can provide high quality products”, adds Count von Neipperg.