Wineries are the physical establishments where wine and brandies are made from grapes as well as other fruits (such as berries and peaches). The wine-making process involves many stages, from grape growing, harvesting, and crushing to fermentation, filtering, blending, aging, bottling, and storing. This process places wineries at the heart of production and manufacturing for the U.S. wine industry. Many American wineries grow and harvest grapes from vineyards on their own estates, and a large number purchase grapes from independent growers, later applying their wine-making techniques. A more elastic and virtual definition of the term is frequently used to refer to wine producers without traditional facilities who may rent space or produce wines at various locations.