What if this year, instead of harvesting grapes in France or Spain as tradition dictates, you took part in the experience right here in Québec? Just like European winemakers, our local artisans invite you to become a grape picker for a day. Let’s take a closer look at this unique and unforgettable experience.
Step into the shoes of a winemaker
For many years, Québec’s winemakers have opened their doors, welcoming you to their cellars, vineyards, estates, and gourmet tables to introduce you to both their signature wines and their latest creations. No matter the season, you have privileged access to their craft, recognized by experts here and abroad.
During harvest season, the experience takes on a whole new dimension, as you can actively participate in the process—picking grapes by the ton, sending them to the press, and witnessing firsthand the transformation of raw fruit into wine! Spending a day as a winemaker means playing a direct role in the creation of an exceptional product that promises to become a fine wine.
Grape Harvest 101: What You Need to Know
Maybe you have a ton of questions about this one-of-a-kind experience—after all, it’s not every day that you get the chance to take part in a grape harvest. Here are some key insights:
- When does it happen? The harvest takes place from late summer to early fall (September and October) when the grapes reach optimal ripeness.
- Where can you go? Check out the Terroir et Saveurs directory of recognized wineries—over 20 producers are waiting for you! Some great examples include Vignoble Rivière du Chêne (Laurentians), Domaine & Vins Gélinas (Mauricie), Le Chat Botté (Montérégie), Vignoble de l’Orpailleur (Eastern Townships), and Vignoble Saint-Gabriel (Lanaudière), all of which have been offering this experience for years.
- Grape picking is physical work! You’ll be walking, bending, standing, and sitting for hours—so don’t forget to warm up and stretch after your day. Your body will thank you!
- Come prepared. Harvest days start early in the morning and often run until late afternoon. Bring snacks, a water bottle, a hat/cap, sunscreen, and sunglasses to stay comfortable.
- Your hands will take a beating! Consider bringing work gloves, though vineyards will usually provide all necessary equipment, including pruning shears, stools, and buckets.
- Hard work pays off! In exchange for your efforts, winemakers often treat you to a meal (lunch or dinner), wine tastings, an exclusive VIP vineyard tour, or even a complimentary bottle as a thank-you gift.
- Book early! This experience is always extremely popular, and spots fill up fast—so don’t wait too long to reserve!
Québec Grape Varieties
Québec’s winemaking expertise goes beyond just white, red, and rosé wines. For true wine connoisseurs, it’s all about the diverse grape varieties cultivated here. Among the ones you’ll be harvesting, you’ll likely come across:
- Frontenac Noir – The foundation of deeply colored, refined, and aromatic wines.
- Frontenac Blanc – Produces fresh wines with tropical fruit, pear, and peach aromas.
- Frontenac Gris – Creates light white wines with peach notes or stunning rosés.
- Vidal – One of the most widely grown grape varieties in Québec; nearly half of winemakers have at least one parcel of it.
- Seyval Blanc – Used to craft excellent light white wines and ice wines.
- Saint-Pépin – Known for its delicate honey and white flower aromas.
- Riesling – A complex and highly aromatic variety.
and more…
Since winemakers will take the time to introduce you to their different grape varieties, their production methods, the history behind their vineyards, and their expertise, you’ll gain a wealth of knowledge. This is one of the great joys of being a grape picker for a day!
The grape harvest in Québec is truly an experience to live at least once in your lifetime. With a picturesque backdrop, your day as a winemaker will be nothing short of perfect.
A Quick Look at the IGP Vin du Québec
Chances are, your grape harvest will take place at a winery that sells its wines under the IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée) Vin du Québec label. Recognized in 2018, the IGP ensures traceability and quality, with wines being verified at every stage, from grape cultivation to bottling.
By definition, a Vin du Québec IGP wine must be made from 100% Québec-grown grapes, specifically within the designated IGP zone. This area is bordered by the Laurentian Mountains to the north, the U.S. border to the south, Ontario to the west, and the Appalachian Mountains to the east.
Just like Agneau de Charlevoix, Ice Cider, Maïs de Neuville (link to article), and the more recent Fromage Fermier, Vin du Québec is part of Québec’s prestigious family of reserved appellations.
Sources:
(1) Conseil des vins du Québec, Les cépages cultivés au Québec, 2022
(2) Conseils des vins du Québec, Pourquoi une IGP Vin du Québec, 2022
