Every time you pick up a bottle of wine, there is a number on the label quietly doing a lot of work. That number is the vintage, and once you understand what it is telling you, the way you shop for and drink wine changes.

Harvest time in the vineyard, also known as vintage, is one of the most exciting and critical times of the year for winemakers. For those just getting started in wine, understanding what happens during the grape harvest can deepen appreciation of the craft behind the vino you enjoy!