There’s a time of year when everything changes in the vineyard. After months of following the grapes as they grow, the moment finally comes to harvest them. It’s not just any moment — it’s probably the most important of the entire year. And also the most intense. At Quinta das Murgas, in Bucelas, the harvest isn’t something staged for tourists. It’s real work. And that’s exactly what makes it special.

Prove as vindimas em setembro — reserve a sua experiência de enoturismo e participe na colheita das uvas, seguida de uma degustação de vinhos locais 1.jpg (Copy)

So, what exactly is the harvest?

The harvest is the moment when grapes are picked at their optimal ripeness. It sounds simple, but it isn’t. Decisions often have to be made daily — sometimes even hourly. Sugar levels, acidity, the condition of the grapes, the weather. Everything matters. And everything influences the wine that will come from it. That’s why every harvest is different. And why anyone who takes part quickly realizes that wine begins long before the bottle.

Harvest in Bucelas: a different kind of experience

Bucelas is a region with a very distinct identity, shaped above all by the Arinto grape variety. Just minutes from Lisbon, yet far removed from the pace of the city, this is where you find old vineyards, limestone soils, and a very characteristic wine profile — fresh, with vibrant acidity and great aging potential. Taking part in the harvest in Bucelas means stepping into this context. It’s not just about picking grapes, it’s about understanding a place.

Harvest at Quinta das Murgas: nothing staged

During the month of September, we open the vineyard to those who want to experience the harvest with us. But there’s something important to know: this isn’t a curated experience. It’s what’s actually happening.

When you join, you:

pick grapes in the vineyard
enter the winery
see the process unfold in real time
ask questions, take part, observe

Some moments are calm, others more intense. Sometimes it starts early. Sometimes there’s dust, grape juice, and a bit of chaos. That’s part of it. And that’s exactly what makes it real.

From vineyard to winery: understanding the process

After the harvest, the work continues in the winery. This is where the grapes are sorted, processed, and transformed. It’s where fermentation begins, where musts are tasted, and decisions are made. For those who have never seen it up close, it’s a completely new world. Suddenly, wine stops being just something you drink, and becomes something you understand.

Tasting time: a vertical tasting

During the experience, there’s also time to taste. We offer a vertical tasting of three different vintages, plus one red wine. It’s not just about tasting — it’s about understanding how wine evolves, how it changes over time, and how each year leaves its mark.

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The harvest lunch (probably the best moment)

At the end, there’s a table. No formality. No rush. Simple food, made for those who have been working in the vineyard. Open wine. Easy conversation. This is often where everything comes together — the morning’s work, what you’ve learned, and the simple pleasure of being there.

When does the harvest take place?

Harvest happens throughout September, but never on fixed dates. It depends on the ripeness of the grapes, and that changes every year. That’s why availability is always limited and adjusted to the real rhythm of the vineyard.

Why it’s worth experiencing a harvest

There are many ways to taste wine. But very few ways to truly understand it. Taking part in a harvest isn’t just an activity. It’s a way to connect — with the land, the process, and what’s in your glass. And after that, wine is never quite the same again.

Harvest at Quinta das Murgas

If you’d like to experience the harvest with us in Bucelas during September, you can get in touch for more information or book directly through our online shop. Places are limited.