Be a hands-on harvest helper

As the number of British vineyards grow so does the need for additional help with the grape harvest. Many small businesses, often family-run, rely on volunteers to help with the most labour-intensive part of the wine-making cycle.

It’s a very special time in the vineyard calendar and this year the warm and sunny weather we’ve enjoyed has meant that harvest is taking place earlier than ever in many parts of the country. Some started at the end of August for the first time in their history, and September is going to see huge amounts of grapes ready for picking as they reach their optimum balance of sugar and acidity.

I’ve been a harvest volunteer for the last couple of years, and this is what I’ve learnt.  

What to expect

• It’s often an early start. Particularly at small vineyards it’s important to pick all the same grape variety in one day so finish times vary (although they usually aim to finish with a late lunch).  

• You’re working outside and have to take what the weather throws at you, so comfy clothes and layers are a good idea, You won’t usually end up picking in really wet weather as rain presents risks of diluting flavours and the grapes spoiling. But remember you're on farmland so ground is uneven and depending on previous weather it may be muddy. Avoid light coloured clothes as you may get them dirty.

• Tools like secateurs and gloves are usually provided but if you prefer to use your own take them along.

• Grapes are often low down so there’s lots of bending involved – most vineyards are happy for you to bring a little portable stool (it’s an easy way to spot people who have done grape picking before!).   

• All the vineyards I’ve volunteered at have provided morning refreshments and lunch which present a great opportunity to socialise with the other volunteers. Often you’ll go how with a bottle of wine too.   

• The atmosphere is great – you usually work in pairs going along rows so you can chat as you pick and I’ve often gone on my own and always met really interesting people.

• There’s no better feeling than watching your bucket fill up with grapes.

Get involved

Use the ‘harvest helpers’ filter on the vineyard finder to search for vineyards that welcome volunteers or if you have a vineyard near you get in touch with them directly to find out if they need extra hands. All the ones I’ve helped at have an email or WhatsApp group that are alerted when volunteers are needed, and you then confirm you can attend. It’s becoming so popular now that sometimes harvest dates get over subscribed – which speaks volumes for how much people enjoy the experience. The weather is a key factor in when the grapes are ready, and when they can be picked, so often dates are decided at quite short notice and can be any day of the week.   

There is something wholesome about returning from a day picking in the vines and knowing you have contributed to that year’s vintage. Cheers to harvest 2025!