Green harvest: quality over quantity

As the sun slowly ripens the grapes in the vineyard, we make a necessary decision on one of our most recent plots: green harvesting. We are currently busy with this procedure on our young Souvignier Gris, which we will harvest for the first time in September 2025.

But what exactly is “green harvesting”? And why do we choose to do it, especially with young vines?

What is green harvesting?

Green harvesting, or vendange verte, is a sustainable technique whereby we deliberately remove some of the young grape bunches at an early stage. We do this when the grapes are still green and growing vigorously. Instead of allowing the plant to spread all its energy across an abundance of bunches, we limit the number. In this way, we encourage the remaining grapes to develop optimally, resulting in greater concentration, flavour and balance.

This method means less yield, but higher quality. This is crucial, especially for young vines, such as our recently planted Souvignier Gris. The plants are still busy developing a strong root system. Too much fruit would weaken them and negatively affect the quality of the wine in the long term.

Why we do this deliberately

Under the leadership of Martin Bacquaert, our wine estate prioritises quality over quantity, and that starts in the vineyard. The green harvest is a tangible example of this: we always put the natural balance and optimal development of the plant first.

This choice requires a clear vision and correct timing. Our vineyard workers closely monitor the growth process of the plants so that they can intervene at the right moment. Because every bunch we remove is a conscious choice. In this way, we are literally laying the foundations for tomorrow's wines today.

New grape variety, new expectations

Souvignier Gris is a fungus-tolerant hybrid grape variety with promising potential, especially in our Belgian climate. The grapes from this young plantation will not be harvested until September 2025. The corresponding wines will therefore only be available in the course of 2026.

However, you don't have to wait that long to discover our wines. In our cosy wine bar and experience meadow, you can already enjoy a wide selection of wines and (BelBul!) bubbles, based on grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Meunier, Auxerrois and Acolon.

Would you like to know more about the work in the vineyard?

Would you like to see the green harvest or other seasonal work with your own eyes? Then be sure to join one of our guided tours. During your visit, we will take you among the vines and into our cellar.