Why Harvest Season Rules at Hua Hin Hills

Maroo grapes, ripe for the picking.

If you’ve been reading this blog — and who hasn’t been! — then you undoubtedly know that harvest season is in full swing at Hua Hin Hills Vineyard.

And if you’re a wine enthusiast or even have a passing interest in wine, you know that harvest is a wonderful time of year.

Why? For starters, the vineyard looks absolutely radiant during harvest. As well, everyone’s curiosity about the new vintage is palpable.

But what I like most is seeing the grapes transform — watching how the Shiraz grapes, for instance, turn from their young, green color to a ripe, dark blue.

This is my third harvest at Hua Hin Hills Vineyard. With each harvest, I learn so much, especially from our amazing vineyard manager, Khun Chaorai. And this year, we’re lucky enough to have viticulture consultant Hans-Peter Hoehnen here as well. Hans-Peter is from Germany, but I’m not sure anyone knows more about tropical winemaking than him.

You like mangos? It’s mango season as well. We’re picking big yellow ones, while the farmers just outside our gates are harvesting their pineapples.

But I digress a bit. By now you’ve noticed the picture with this blog post. That shot was taken by yours truly in the late afternoon, the most wonderful and peaceful time at Hua Hin Hills Vineyard. Our hard-working harvesting team is picking Maroo grapes. These are our table grapes. Four months ago, they were tiny and almost lime green in color. Now look at them!

I love the taste of Maroo grapes, just as I love this time of year in Hua Hin. You travel to another wine region during harvest – such as any of those in my home country of Germany – and you’re likely to experience chilly nights.

But here it’s warm. The tropical evening breeze feels so good. And it’s even better when paired with a chilled glass of Thai wine. Ask for me when you visit and I’d be happy to serve you myself!