From Vine to Vintage: How Long Do Grapes Ferment for Wine

How long do grapes ferment for wine? Many wine drinkers ask themselves this question. Grape fermentation is one of the most essential and fascinating stages of winemaking, transforming freshly pressed grape juice into the sophisticated wines you love. In this blog, we’ll explore how long grapes ferment for wine and dive into the intricate steps involved in the grape wine fermentation process. Along the way, we’ll also answer popular questions such as how do grapes ferment into wine, when do grapes grow in South Africa, and what’s the difference between fermented grape juice and wine.

How Long Do Grapes Ferment for Wine: How Does the Grape Wine Fermentation Process Work?

The grape wine fermentation process begins shortly after grapes are harvested and crushed. Fermentation refers to the chemical transformation of sugar into alcohol, usually facilitated by yeast. Naturally occurring or added yeast consumes the sugars found in grape juice and produces alcohol, carbon dioxide, and heat.

There are two key types of fermentation in winemaking:

1. Alcoholic Fermentation: This is the main stage where sugars turn into ethanol.
2. Malolactic Fermentation: This secondary fermentation softens the wine, converting malic acid into the smoother lactic acid. It’s more common in red wines and some whites like Chardonnay.

So, how do grapes ferment into wine? It starts with the yeast, either native (wild) or cultivated strains, which metabolises the sugar in grape juice. This biological reaction not only produces alcohol but also releases aromas and flavours that define the wine’s character.

How Long Do Grapes Ferment for Wine?

So, how long do grapes ferment for wine? Fermentation time can vary significantly depending on the grape varietal, the winemaker’s goals, and environmental factors such as temperature. On average, here’s what you can expect:

• Primary Fermentation: Typically lasts between 5 and 14 days. This is when most of the sugar is converted into alcohol.

• Secondary Fermentation (if used): This can continue for several weeks to a few months, especially in red wines or those undergoing barrel ageing.

For instance, red wines may ferment on the skins for added colour and tannins, extending the process. White wines usually have a shorter fermentation time, often done in cooler temperatures to preserve their fresh and fruity aromas.

So, how long do grapes ferment for wine? It’s not a fixed rule, but primary fermentation generally wraps up within two weeks, with some wines continuing to evolve through secondary fermentation.

This also answers:

• How long do grapes take to ferment? Roughly 5–14 days for primary fermentation.
• How long does it take grapes to ferment into wine? Including both stages, anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months, depending on style and complexity.

How Long Do Grapes Ferment for Wine: Fermenting Grapes to Make Wine: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simplified step-by-step breakdown of fermenting grapes to make wine:

1. Harvesting: Grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness. A key decision that impacts acidity, sugar levels, and overall wine profile.
2. Crushing and Destemming: Grapes are gently crushed to release their juice while separating stems.
3. Yeast Inoculation: Either natural (wild) or cultured yeast is introduced to begin fermentation.
4. Fermentation Vessel: The juice is transferred to stainless steel tanks, oak barrels, or concrete eggs, depending on the style of wine.
5. Temperature Control: Carefully monitored to maintain the ideal range for yeast activity and flavour preservation.
6. Punchdowns or Pumpovers (for reds): Mixing the skins back into the juice to extract colour and tannin.
7. Completion: Fermentation ends when sugar is fully converted or stopped earlier if a sweeter wine is desired.

How Long Do Grapes Ferment for Wine: When Do Grapes Grow in South Africa?

How long do grapes ferment for wine? South Africa’s climate is perfect for growing wine grapes, especially in regions like the Western Cape. The growing cycle generally follows this pattern:

• Budburst: Occurs in early spring (around September), when dormant vines awaken and new green shoots begin to emerge.
• Flowering and Fruit Set: From October to November, the vines bloom with tiny flowers that will eventually turn into grape clusters. Successful fruit set during this time is crucial for a good yield.
• Veraison (colour change and ripening): From January to February, the grapes start to soften and change colour, indicating the onset of ripening. This is when we carefully monitor sugar levels, acidity, and flavour concentration.
• Harvest: Begins in late January through to April, depending on the varietal and the weather. Early varietals like Sauvignon Blanc may be harvested in January or February, while reds like Shiraz and Pinotage are typically picked later in March or April.

So, when do grapes grow in South Africa? The vineyards burst to life in spring, but the critical period for winemaking comes in late summer to early autumn, when the grapes reach their perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.

HER Wine Collection Wines

We’re more than just a wine brand. We’re a proudly black female-owned company that’s passionate about empowerment, representation, and crafting exceptional wines that reflect our South African roots.

Our range of wines includes:

Pinotage

Our 2023 HER Wines Pinotage is rich, bold, and authentically South African. It bursts with aromas of ripe berries and subtle earthy undertones. With subtle tannins and a dry finish, this is a red wine that commands attention. We recommend pairing it with red meats, grilled vegetables, or hearty stews. It’s our tribute to South Africa’s signature grape. Powerful, expressive, and full of personality.

Shiraz

Our 2023 HER Wines Shiraz is a deep, medium-bodied wine with layers of dark berries, spice and vanilla. It delivers a balance of spice and dark fruit, making it perfect for pairing with rich dishes like braised beef or lamb curry. This is the wine we reach for when we want something intense, complex, and warming.

Sauvignon Blanc

Fresh, zesty, and vibrant — our 2024 HER Wines Sauvignon Blanc is summer in a glass. Expect flavours of pineapple, passionfruit, and a hint of citrus, balanced by a crisp, dry finish. It’s our go-to white for warm afternoons and seafood dishes. Serve it chilled for the perfect refreshment.

Chenin Blanc

Our 2024 HER Wines Chenin Blanc is wonderfully versatile. With bright acidity and notes of white pear, yellow apple and green melon, it can be enjoyed as a crisp, dry white. It’s excellent with everything from roast chicken to fresh salads. This is a wine that showcases the elegance and adaptability of South African Chenin at its finest.

We take great pride in every stage of the winemaking process, especially fermentation. Each varietal receives a tailored approach, allowing us to showcase its unique characteristics. Through fermentation, temperature control, and constant care, we ensure the wine in your glass is a true expression of who we are and where we come from.

Buy HER Wine

Fermentation is where the magic happens in winemaking — where grape juice transforms into something much more complex, flavourful, and memorable. Whether it’s Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, or Sauvignon Blanc, each of our wines goes through a carefully controlled fermentation process designed to showcase the best of South African terroir. At HER Wine Collection, we practise small-batch fermentation with close attention to detail, ensuring a premium result in every bottle. Whether you’re sipping on a bold red or a refreshing white, you’re enjoying the result of a beautifully orchestrated fermentation process. So next time you pour a glass, you’ll know exactly how long do grapes ferment for wine — and why it matters.