Dried-Grape Wines: Modern production techniques

Grapes with maximum extract and sugars are required, which normally entails restricting yields. Such grapes may be picked either before, at, or after full ripeness. Twisting the stalk was once practised in Veneto but most growers now prefer to dry their grapes off the vine.

Those who pick slightly before full maturation claim there is less risk of rot, thicker skins, enhanced resistance during drying, and higher acidity, all of which favour aroma, freshness, balance, and longevity—and concentrate the grapes which remain on the vine.