Harvest

Full Moon: The Time of Grape Harvest

At Haapman Estate, winemaker Herman Haapman harvests grapes during the full moon, honoring ancient winemaking traditions.

Herman crafts wine using time-honored methods and has studied winemaking techniques dating back 4,000 years. Ancient peoples believed that the full moon draws energy from the grapes and strength from the rich soil—just as it influences the tides.

Many cultures have closely followed the moon’s cycles, practicing mystical rites leading up to the harvest. At Château Nagu, we harvest only during the full moon, when lunar energies are said to be at their peak. This is the moment when our wines achieve their richest aromas and fullest character—a mystically perfect expression of nature’s finest.

The Lunar Calendar and Biodynamic Winegrowing

Since ancient times, following the lunar calendar and biodynamic winegrowing have been central practices in agricultural traditions and cultures around the world. The position of the moon and stars has played a decisive role in determining when to plant, tend the soil, prune vines, and harvest. Herman has reintroduced this age-old practice into Finnish grape cultivation.

The moon’s influence on ocean tides is a scientifically recognized phenomenon: as the moon approaches Earth, it draws the seas upward. This same pull affects grape juice, which, during the Supermoon, absorbs the finest flavors from the roots. At this time, grapes reach their peak mineral and flavor content. In our estate’s expansive greenhouses, we protect our grapes from rain and frost, ensuring optimal growing conditions. We harvest on November 15 each year, allowing the grapes to mature under the warmth of long Hyperborean summer days and cool Finnish nights. This balance captures the best qualities of both warm and cool climates in our grapes.

We protect our grapes from insects and birds with netting and protective coverings, and we use no chemicals or pesticides on our estate. This care results in grapes that are globally unique and of exceptional quality. Comparable to Japan’s Ruby Roman grapes—which can sell for €1,000 per cluster—our grapes are among the world’s most prized. For this reason, our wines rank among the world’s most valuable Single Estate wines, sought after by collectors worldwide.