"Winery season," typically referred to as the harvest season when grapes are picked and the winemaking process starts, differs between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres due to the reversal of seasons. In the Northern Hemisphere, which includes renowned wine regions like France, Italy, Spain, and California, the harvest season generally starts in late August and runs through October, depending on the specific grape variety and the weather conditions each year. The exact timing varies by region and wine type. For instance, in cooler climates like Champagne, France, or Oregon, USA, the grape harvest might extend into October and November, while in hotter climates like Southern Italy or California's Central Valley, the harvest could start as early as August. In the Southern Hemisphere, home to notable wine-producing countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Argentina (Mendoza), and South Africa, the grape harvest and winemaking activities usually occur between February and April. Again, timing can vary based on the specific region, grape variety, and local climate. Remember that outside the harvest season, wineries are still active with the various stages of winemaking, maturation, and bottling. Thus, it's possible to have an engaging and educational visit at any time of the year. Always check with individual wineries for their peak times and any special events they might have.