Why harvest captivates
In just a few weeks, a year’s worth of work comes together: grape ripeness, weather, logistics and precise gestures. It’s a time of transmission too—when ‘terroir’, ‘sorting’ or ‘gentle extraction’ make sense in the glass.
When to come
Depending on grape and vintage, the Bordeaux harvest window typically runs from **mid‑September to October** (earlier for some whites).
Friday and Saturday mornings are the liveliest—book ahead.
What you can see or do during harvest
Each estate has its own hosting policy. Some allow visitors to observe key steps; others offer themed workshops. The aim is to feel the energy of the moment without disrupting the teams at work.
- Observe parcel‑by‑parcel picking and crate transfers.
- Watch manual or optical sorting on the reception deck.
- Follow first tank fillings and ripeness checks.
- Taste ‘berry → must → fermenting wine’ (if available).
Spotlight on Château La Fleur de Boüard (Lalande‑de‑Pomerol)
We welcome visitors during the harvest with season‑adapted guided tours: stroll through the vines, discover the Cellar of Light and finish with a guided tasting. For any harvest‑specific experience, please contact us in advance; we’ll confirm what’s feasible on your date with safety and schedules in mind.
- “Cellar of Light” tour (1 h): immersive show + tasting of 2 wines.
- Alchemy workshop (2 h): create your own blend + tasting of 5 wines.
- Masterclass (2 h): educational vertical of great vintages.
Sample morning itinerary
- 08:30 – Coffee welcome: safety briefing & vintage overview.
- 09:00 – Walk in the rows: ripeness choices & picking date.
- 09:30 – Reception deck: sorting & first juices arriving.
- 10:15 – Winery: gravity‑flow, temperature control, fermentation starts.
- 10:45 – Guided tasting (2 to 5 wines depending on formula).
Some practical tips
Closed, non‑slip shoes; ground can be wet.
Light jacket + hat; cool mornings, sunny midday.
Follow safety guidance: circulation zones, photo policy.
Book early; group sizes are limited during harvest.
We answer your questions
Can we actually pick grapes?
For insurance and safety, hands‑on picking isn’t always possible. At La Fleur de Boüard we offer season‑adapted visits; contact us to check feasibility for your date.
Are children welcome?
Yes for observation tours; tasting is for adults only. Soft drinks are provided.
What should we wear?
Closed shoes and comfortable clothing are essential, plus sun protection.
