Harvest season has started Lescombes Family Vineyards! The winery has received its first few trucks of grapes and from now until about the end of September, all hands are on deck helping in any and every way possible.

At 200 acres, we own the largest family vineyard in New Mexico. Each acre produces about 1,000 vines which leads to an average of 7-10 tons of grapes. Our Viticulturist, Emmanuel Lescombes, cares for the crop ofCabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Chenin Blanc, and dozens of other varietals. Caring for the vineyard is more than just watering – it’s keeping an eye on the weather, pesky animals, pests, flowering timing, and so much more. Fun Fact: Paper from the office at Lescombes Family Vineyards is used to make compost for the vineyard!

Sample grapes are pulled from the vine and taken to the lab to test for sugar, acidity, and more. Certain varieties are harvested at specific times, depending on the wine it’s going to be used for. Once the samples test at the desired numbers…the vineyard is given the green light to begin harvesting. The earlier grapes are harvested the more acidic, while later harvested grapes contain more sugar.

Though the New Mexico climate is ideal for growing grapes, the sun is harsh for grapes off the vine – which is why our mechanical harvester runs through the night until early morning. As grapes are collected, they’re then delivered to the winery to be destemmed and gently crushed. Then, red grapes are sent to New Mexico’s largest fermentation tanks and white grapes are sent to be pressed.

Interested in seeing the vineyard for yourself? Click here for more info on our Vineyard & Winery tours!