Harvesting
Harvesting of the fruit is a very manual and complex process at Melville. During the month prior to picking, each block is randomly “cluster sampled” for sugar (brix) and ph levels every few days. This random sampling provides an overall snapshot of the block’s ripeness (or lack thereof). Grapes remain on the vines until samples reveal the desired ripeness and are picked only when ready, as opposed to being picked at will. Grapes are hand-picked, both to ensure gentle handling, as well as quality of the selection.
