Vendange tardive is a term used in winemaking to describe the harvest of grapes that have been allowed to fully ripen on the vine, often resulting in a higher sugar content and concentrated flavors. This term is commonly used in the production of sweet or late-harvest wines, where the grapes are left on the vine longer than usual to develop higher levels of sweetness and flavor. The grapes are typically harvested later in the season, after the regular harvest, when they have reached a level of overripeness. This process can be influenced by factors such as climate, grape variety, and winemaker preference. Vendange tardive wines are known for their intense sweetness, richness, and complexity.


