NE Georgia grape harvest begins

UNDATED - It's harvest time for the vineyards in Northeast Georgia - and the grape growers are expecting a "stellar" harvest this year.

The viners say their crops have enjoyed an ideal season of "even rainfall and warm sunshine" this year.

"We expect a stellar harvest this year, thanks to an exceptional growing season," said David Harris, owner of Blackstock Vineyards in Dahlonega, the state's largest vineyard. "The dry and sunny spring and summer have created ideal conditions."

"Determining the right time to harvest the grapes is not an exact science," said Steve Gibson, president of the Winegrowers Association of Georgia and general manager of Habersham Vineyards and Winery in Helen. "The sugar content must be just right and the fruit's ripeness perfect to be able to produce the best wins. And when the grapes are ready, the rush is on to complete the harvest when the fruit is at its peak."

Chateau Elan in Braselton, the southernmost of the vineyards in the area, began its harvest a few days ago, preparing to start the crushing and pressing that will lead to fermentation of wine that will be bottled next spring.

The harvest will continue over the next 8-to-10 weeks, depending on the elevation of the vineyards and the types of grapes being grown.