October 4, 2024.
Azure Coast, Tang Jin Manor.
Sunlight swept over the rolling hills and spread across the entire vineyard.
Clusters of ripe, plump grapes hung among the leaves and vines.
"You only need to cut down whole bunches with even coloring and suitable ripeness. If you find any damaged, moldy, or rotten grapes, remove them beforehand..." The estate's winemaker stood at the edge of the field, patiently explaining the harvesting standards.
After a brief demonstration, he handed specialized pruning shears and wicker baskets to the five of them.
"Sounds pretty simple."
"So beautiful. The color is gorgeous."
"Wow, this bunch is huge!"
"Are these Grenache grapes?"
"This section is Syrah. The Grenache is in the eastern vineyard. It ripens a little later and will be saved for the next harvest."
In early October, inland Provence had clear skies and light clouds. The sun was bright but not scorching.
In the distance lay layer upon layer of hills and the faintly visible Azure Coast shoreline. Nearby, vineyards stretched to the horizon, their leaves gradually turning yellow in the autumn wind, gold intertwined with deep green. Tang Jin Manor was truly breathtaking at this time of year.
The four older women wore brightly colored sportswear, their hair tied back behind their heads.
Four entirely different kinds of mature charm moved through the grapevines.
Youthful and vibrant, dazzlingly beautiful.
Harvesting was not complicated, but it tested one's patience.
They had to bend down and reach through the leaves, find the bunches with the best ripeness, gently support them with their palms, then cut them cleanly from the stem. If they used even a little too much force, the plump grapes would tumble off.
Fortunately, they were all smart women. They quickly got the feel for it and learned the technique, thoroughly enjoying