Costa Blanca Magazin

Late summer in the Marina Alta and the Marina Baixa

Die reiche Geschichte des Weinbaus

Between vineyard and fairground how the region celebrates its harvest time

In Teulada, Benissa, Xaló and Parcent, the first harvest crates are filling up. Tractors chug towards the bodega, winegrowers check the grapes with an experienced eye - the grape harvest is here. At the end of August and in September, it determines the rhythm of entire communities. And while the work in the vineyards is concentrated, squares, streets and cellars are transformed into meeting places for connoisseurs.

More than just harvesting
For the winegrowers, this time is the highlight of the year - and physically demanding. The grapes are often harvested early in the morning or even at night in order to bring the Moscatel grapes to the press at the optimum temperature. The variety characterises many of the region's white wines and is the basis for the traditional Mistela, a sweet liqueur wine that has been produced in the Marina Alta according to family recipes for generations.
For the people in the villages, the harvest is also a social event. People meet up, taste the new vintage or swap stories - whether in a small circle in the wine cellar or at a big party on the market square.

Where the grape harvest is celebrated
Festa del Moscatell - Teulada (beginning of September)
Street parades, grape competitions and open bodegas. Visitors can taste, talk to winemakers and experience the work in the cellar up close.

Fiestas de la Vendimia - Xaló (mid-September)
Market stalls, live music and tastings in the heart of the Vall de Pop. The highlight is the parade, during which grapes and wines from the current vintage are presented.

Mostra de Vins - Benissa (September)
Regional wineries present their best wines, accompanied by dishes that go perfectly with the wine.

From the vine to the glass
Some bodegas - for example in Xaló, Teulada, Alfaz del Pi or Parcent - offer guided tours during this time. Visitors can taste fresh grapes, take a look in the cellars and see how the new vintage is created from the harvest.

During harvest time, it's worth seizing the opportunity: simply drop by a bodega or a winegrower, try a glass, strike up a conversation and take a look behind the scenes. Whether special cuvées, limited vintages or freshly pressed must - almost every winery has its own highlights. And if you taste with an open mind, you might just find the wine that not only tastes good this autumn, but also reminds you of the special harvest time later on.