Grape Harvest in Italy

We help our friends every year with their vineyard in exchange for some grapes to make our own wine and I have to let you know that its not quite the romantic image many people think. It's hot, sweaty, sticky, back-breaking work and there are lots of bugs and spiders that like to bite, usually something I'm allergic to gets me and I end up with some huge welts from them. It can also be hard to time when you will be there with when the grapes are ready to be picked. Last year we picked Pinot Noir grapes at the end of August and the previous year it had been the last half of September. The other aspects of wine making are much more fun!

Find some real agriturismo near where you will be staying and inquire by email (by real I mean they actually are making wine).

Also I have to report that I have heard many places are cutting down on letting guests do this due to labor laws, insurance, etc. Some people have told me it is flatly illegal (I am not sure where the law actually is) while I know other tourists who have done it recently and had a great time.

And it can be dangerous - if you work along side pros check their hands - there is a good chance not all of them have a full 10 fingers!

Would anyone know of a vineyard that would allow a person to pick for 1 day? Or a website?