Staying in Piedmont in September or early October means seeing the region at its absolute best. The hills of Monferrato, Langhe and Roero turn gold and crimson, tractors hum and pickers laugh between the vines. This is the vendemmia — the grape harvest — and it runs roughly from late August through mid-October. Which grapes are harvested when? White grapes like Cortese (for Gavi) and Moscato (for Asti Spumante and Moscato d'Asti) come first, often as early as late August. Then follow the early reds, Dolcetto and Barbera. The famed Nebbiolo, the grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco, closes the harvest in October — often by the time the first wisps of fog drift through the valleys. Take part or just watch Many small winemakers open their doors during the vendemmia. You can spend half a day picking, watch the crushing in the cantina, or simply share a glass afterwards. Always book ahead — this is the busiest time of the year for them. Sagre and wine festivals Nearly every village celebrates the harvest with a sagra: a feast around a local product. Expect long tables under the trees, a steaming bowl of agnolotti, a glass of young wine and music late into the night. The biggest events are in Asti (Douja d'Or), Nizza Monferrato and Canelli. Book restaurants a week in advance — September is high season for local gastronomy and the best trattorie fill up fast.