When to Bottle Wine? Lunar Calendar 2025

Bottling wine is a crucial step that requires attention and care. In addition to technical factors, such as stabilisation and clarification, winemaking tradition places great importance on the influence of the moon on this process. Following the lunar calendar for bottling wine is an ancient practice, handed down from generation to generation, which aims to obtain a higher quality final product.

In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of the lunar calendar for wine bottling in 2025, providing detailed information on the phases of the moon, their effects on wine and specific advice for each type. Whether you are expert winemakers or home wine enthusiasts, this guide will help you choose the best time to bottle your wine and achieve excellent results.

When to bottle wine: the influence of the moon

The idea that the moon influences wine bottling is based on the belief that, just as the moon exerts its gravitational force on the tides, it also influences the liquids present in plants and, consequently, in wine . This belief is a fundamental principle of biodynamic viticulture, a holistic approach to winemaking that emphasizes working in harmony with natural rhythms . According to biodynamics, the sap of plants rises during the waxing moon phase and descends during the waning phase . This influence would also extend to wine, influencing its taste, aroma and preservation .  

Although there is no definitive scientific evidence to support this theory , many winemakers, especially those who follow the principles of biodynamics, believe that following the lunar calendar can help to obtain more balanced and harmonious wines

Lunar calendar for wine bottling 2025

Here is a lunar calendar for bottling wine in 2025, based on the phases of the moon:  

Note: The dates indicated are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the geographical location. It is always best to consult a specific lunar calendar for your location.

Moon phases for wine bottling: which to choose?

• New moon: it is not recommended to bottle any type of wine during the new moon, as it is believed that energies are at a minimum and could negatively affect the quality of the product .  
• Waxing moon (first quarter): this is the ideal time to bottle sparkling wines and spumante . The waxing moon promotes activity and fermentation, contributing to the formation of fine and persistent bubbles .  
• Full moon: this is considered the best phase for bottling all types of wine, especially red, white and rosé wines . The full moon is at its maximum power and is believed to positively influence the stability and preservation of wine .  
• Waning moon (last quarter): this can be a suitable time to bottle some aged wines, especially those that benefit from further stabilisation and slow maturation . The waning moon promotes the stabilisation of the wine and its maturation over time . 
• Lunar nodes: it is important to note that certain days, known as “lunar nodes”, are considered unfavourable for any winemaking activity, including bottling . These are the days when the Moon’s path intersects the Earth’s orbit around the Sun and it is believed that these periods can disturb the energy and balance of the wine.

When to bottle wine: tips for each type

Bottling red wine for ageing

For red wines intended for ageing, such as Barolo, Barbaresco or Brunello di Montalcino, the waning moon can be a good choice for bottling. This is because the waning moon promotes the stabilisation of the wine and a slow and gradual maturation, ideal for wines that need time to develop their characteristics to the fullest.

Bottling young red wines

For young red wines, such as Beaujolais Nouveau or some sparkling red wines, the full moon is the most suitable phase. The full moon promotes the preservation of fruity aromas and the freshness of the wine, typical characteristics of young wines that are consumed within a short time.

Bottling aromatic white wine

For aromatic white wines, such as Gewürztraminer or Sauvignon Blanc, it is advisable to bottle during the waxing moon. This is because the waxing moon, associated with the air element, is believed to be able to enhance the floral and fruity notes of these wines .  

Bottling other white wines

For other white wines, the full moon remains the ideal phase for bottling .  

When to bottle sparkling wine

As mentioned above, the waxing moon is the ideal phase for bottling sparkling wines and spumante . This is because the waxing moon promotes fermentation and the formation of bubbles . An example of a sparkling wine that could benefit from bottling during the waxing moon is Lambrusco.  

When to bottle still wine

For still wines, the full moon is the most suitable phase for bottling . However, if you want a more structured wine with a greater ageing capacity, you can also bottle during the waning moon .  

When to bottle wine in demijohns

Bottling wine in demijohns follows the same rules as bottling wine . Therefore, for young wines, the full moon is the ideal phase, while for wines intended for ageing, the waning moon is preferable .  

In addition to following the lunar calendar, it is important to pay attention to hygiene when bottling in demijohns. Make sure the demijohns are perfectly clean and sterilised before using them. Also, store the demijohns in a cool, dark place with constant humidity, to avoid altering the wine.

Wine bottling period 2025: additional considerations

In addition to the phases of the moon, it is important to consider other factors for bottling wine:

• Weather conditions: tradition recommends bottling on clear days, without wind and with mild temperatures . Ideally, the day should be sunny and calm, with moderate temperatures. Avoid bottling during rain, strong wind or extreme temperatures, as these factors can negatively affect the stability and aroma of the wine.  

• Type of wine: each wine has its own characteristics and maturation times. It is important to know the wine you are bottling well in order to choose the best time .  
• Storage: after bottling, it is essential to store the wine in a cool, dark place with constant humidity, to preserve its quality over time.

Conclusions

Bottling wine is an art that requires attention and knowledge. Following the lunar calendar can be a valuable aid in obtaining a higher quality final product, but it is important to remember that it is not the only determining factor. Choosing the best time to bottle wine depends on a combination of factors, including the phases of the moon, weather conditions, the type of wine and your personal preferences. While scientific evidence to support the lunar influence on wine bottling may be limited, the lunar calendar remains a valuable tradition for many winemakers who believe it contributes to the quality and character of their wines.

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