The Grape Harvest in Jalon - Sun-Kissed Celebration!

Each year, as the long, hot days of summer begin to wane, the vineyards of Jalón and the surrounding villages in Spain's Alicante province come alive with activity. The annual grape harvest, known as the "vendimia," is a vital event for the region's winemakers, local economy, and community, deeply rooted in tradition and steeped in culture.

Harvesting Season

The grape harvest in Jalón typically begins in late August and continues into September. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the weather conditions throughout the year. A hotter summer may advance the harvest, while cooler or wetter weather may delay it. Experienced vineyard owners and winemakers monitor the grapes closely, waiting for the perfect moment when the sugar levels and acidity are just right to ensure the best possible wine.

Hand-Picked Grapes

The majority of the grapes in the Jalón Valley are still harvested by hand, a method favoured for its precision and care. Teams of workers, often made up of local families and seasonal labourers, descend upon the vineyards armed with small, sharp pruning shears. The grape clusters are carefully cut from the vines and placed into large baskets, ensuring the delicate fruit is not damaged. This method, though labour-intensive, allows the pickers to select only the ripest grapes, leaving behind those that need a little more time on the vine.

The landscape of the region, with its rolling hills and terraced vineyards, also lends itself to hand-picking, as many of the vines are not easily accessible by machines. This traditional approach helps maintain the quality of the grapes, contributing to the distinctive wines that the region is known for.

Types of Grapes Grown

Jalón and the surrounding villages are renowned for their production of both white and red grape varieties. The most famous grape of the region is the Moscatel, a variety prized for its sweet, floral aroma and used primarily in the production of dessert wines. Moscatel grapes thrive in the Mediterranean climate, with its hot, dry summers and mild winters, allowing them to develop high sugar content and intense flavours.

In addition to Moscatel, other varieties such as Garnacha, Monastrell, and Cabernet Sauvignon are also grown. These grapes contribute to the region's diverse wine production, ranging from crisp, refreshing whites to robust, full-bodied reds.

Bodegas Xaló: The Heart of Local Wine Production

At the heart of the region's wine industry is Bodegas Xaló, a cooperative winery that plays a pivotal role in the production, promotion, and sale of local wines. Founded in 1962, Bodegas Xaló brings together numerous small vineyard owners, allowing them to pool their resources and expertise. The winery produces a wide range of wines, from the famous sweet Moscatel to rich reds and refreshing rosés.

Bodegas Xaló is also an important cultural and social hub, hosting tastings, tours, and events throughout the year. During the harvest season, the winery is a hive of activity as trucks filled with freshly picked grapes arrive to be pressed, fermented, and eventually bottled.

Raisin Production

In addition to wine, the region is also known for its raisin production. Moscatel grapes are often dried in the sun to produce sweet, flavourful raisins, a process that has been practiced in the area for centuries. The hot, dry climate of the region is ideal for this traditional method of preservation, which results in a high-quality product enjoyed both locally and internationally.

The annual grape harvest in Jalón is more than just an agricultural event – it is a celebration of the region's rich cultural heritage, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local community.
It remains an essential part of life in this picturesque corner of Spain.