The history of winemaking has been around for more than 7000 years. Old world wine has a long and fascinating history, originating from many different parts of Europe & the Mediterranean wine regions. Traditional wine was first developed in the Old World wine regions due to the unique climate and soil conditions. It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that wine became popular. Some of the most famous old-world wine regions are France, Italy, Germany & Spain. Over time, winemaking techniques and grape varieties evolved in these regions, making their styles differ from region to region. New winemaking techniques were also introduced, which led to greater variety and quality wines being made. Wineries in different parts of the world produce wines with their unique traditions that have very distinctive tastes.
“Old World ” wines are usually made from grapes grown in colder climates, which gives them heavier notes, and more complex and pronounced flavors. New world wines are made from grapes that were grown in warm climates. The characteristics of new world wines have brighter acidity, lower sugar levels, and sharper tannins than old-world wines, which gives them a fruity and floral taste.
Most wines produced in America are considered “New World” wines. Occasionally, you can find some of the traditional vineyards, with grape varieties grown in colder climates producing excellent wines, with tastes and characteristics that are very similar to the “Old World” wines.
Winemaking is a complex and sophisticated process. While preserving many of the winemaking traditions, some things also do not change over the centuries like vineyard safety. Of course, many of the same safety principles apply to any grower industry. In this post, we will focus on vineyards as we have some very special customers that grow grapes and produce amazing wines.
Nestled among the beautiful green rolling hills, vineyard owners and winery workers put their expertise and passion everyday into cultivating the best grape varieties, so they can have a plentiful harvest. During mid-summer to late summer, growers usually prepare for their harvesting season. During the many months of planting, growing, pruning, and nurturing the grapes, the vineyard staff has persevered and endured many challenges to bring the whole process to fruition. Many of the vines took 3 or more years to mature before they could be picked. This is the only time during the year that the growers have to get it right. They only have a limited window of opportunity to harvest the highest quality grapes that they’ve all been waiting for.
It is the vintners’ goal to produce the highest quality wine possible. However, the high summer heat can adversely affect the quality of the grapes, therefore some of the vineyard owners and staff choose to harvest their grapes at night when it’s cooler. Harvesting the grapes while it’s cool helps to keep the grapes’ sugar composition consistent, thereby producing better tasting wines.
Vineyard Safety
It’s important for vineyard owners and harvesters to take the proper safety precautions to ensure a safe and successful harvest. This means keeping the workers safe and free of injuries throughout the processes of harvesting quality grapes, getting it to the crushing & fermentation process, then placing wine in the barrels. Red wines need to ferment in barrels made of French or American Oak, while white wines need barrels made of stainless steel or Hungarian Oak.
Benefits of Wearing Work Gloves
Growing, pruning, nurturing, and harvesting grapes can be a time-consuming task. But it can be made a lot easier with the use of safety gloves. Safety work gloves help protect your hands from the grape leaves, thorns, and other debris. They also protect your hands from abrasions, nicks, and cuts while working. Work gloves come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can find the perfect fit for you.
Rubber Latex String Knit Gloves
What to do if there is a Hazard on Your Vineyard
Winemaking is an ancient art and a delicate process that requires special care and attention to details. That is why it’s important to know the safety steps of winemaking and vineyard safety. If there is a hazard in your vineyard, take action immediately. Report the injury to a safety manager or vineyard owner, and seek medical help immediately.
Clean up any spilled material and call 911 if necessary.
Spill Preventions Solutions & Sorbent Products
Machine Safety With Lock Out Tag Out
Confined Spaces
In the beginning, wine was made in open spaces where contaminants could easily enter the vats. Many vintage wine producers still operate in unstructured areas outdoors or underground depending on the type of grape being produced. However, with advances in technology, modern wineries are able to consistently produce higher-quality wines in more confined spaces. This is possible because winemakers can control the environment more precisely, allowing them to monitor and control the various processes that occur during wine production.
Since most of the production facilities are inside a building, there are safety guidelines that winemakers and their staff need to adhere to. As a result, it is important to practice safety requirements to prevent unnecessary injuries and slip trips and fall accidents.
Ergonomic Knee Pads and Knee Support
Working Concept Ergonomic Safety Mat
Working Concepts Handy Safety Mat
Working Concept Gardener’s Safety Mat Strip
Heat Stress Illness Prevention Info
By following the safety procedures and using the proper safety gear, you can help contribute to a safe and productive wine-making experience.
Ask Our Safety Professionals
Wine is an art and a source of pleasure that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur, it’s important to know the history of winemaking and vineyard safety. Our safety experts can help you understand any questions you may have related to safety supplies and vineyard safety. Please call 800-310-7233 Mon – Fri 8am-5pm PST. Ask our safety professionals and they will be happy to share their knowledge and insights with you.
