🌿 Grape cluster

A grape cluster is a bunch of grape berries on a common stalk. The stalk is called the rachis. Each cluster grows on a vine shoot opposite a leaf and consists of dozens, sometimes hundreds, of berries. The shape and density of clusters depend on the variety. They can be loose or tight, conical or cylindrical. A loose cluster airs better and dries after rain. In a tight cluster the berries press against each other and dampness lingers, so the risk of grey rot rises. A grower sometimes thins the clusters so that the rest ripen better. When grapes are picked, the stems can be kept or removed. The skin of the berry gives colour and tannin, while the stem adds bitterness and freshness. So in some wines the berries are pressed together with stems, and in others the stems are removed. The cluster matters for all winemaking: the choice between hand picking and machine picking starts with it, as the machine separates berries from the cluster.