The Colors of Summe - Veraison

Dear Friends of Madonna del Latte,

As we enjoy the long, sun-drenched days of summer here in Umbria, a magical transformation is taking place in our vineyards. We're in the midst of "Veraison," a crucial and beautiful stage in the life cycle of our grapes.

For those of you familiar with the rhythm of the seasons, you'll know this is the moment when the hard, green berries begin their remarkable journey to ripeness. The name itself, from the French véraison, speaks to this change, as the grapes "change color." One by one, our Pinot Nero and Cabernet Franc grapes are shifting from a vibrant green to their final hues of deep purple and ruby red. It's a breathtaking sight, painting our vineyard with a mosaic of colors.

Veraison is more than just a visual spectacle; it's a pivotal moment in winemaking. This is when the berries begin to soften, and the synthesis of sugars, anthocyanins (the color pigments), and phenolic compounds starts in earnest. The aromas and flavors that will define our next vintage are just beginning to develop, promising a new chapter in our story.

This period requires our full attention, as we meticulously monitor the grapes' progress, ensuring they receive the perfect balance of sun and shade. We are nurturing the future of our wine, and we can’t wait to share the results with you.

Until then, we invite you to imagine the taste of the Umbrian sun captured in every one of these ripening berries.

Salute!

The Madonna del Latte Team