The Vintage

One of the fugitive brothers who killed a man by accident and seeks safety in France. He is protective of his younger brother Giancarlo, and his artistic impulse leads him to carve a sculpture of Leonne Morel. His resolve to pursue a possible peaceful life clashes with the threats surrounding him, and he ultimately sacrifices his safety for his brother’s chance at happiness.

Ernesto’s brother, who hopes for a stable life in the vineyard community. He forms a bond with Lucienne and becomes a symbol of potential harmony between the newcomers and the locals. His openness and capacity for affection contrast with the suspicion he faces from others.

Wife of Louis Morel and mother of Yolande; she becomes a focal point of suspicion when a sculpture of her is found, prompting questions of infidelity. Her poise under pressure highlights the strain between personal dignity and community judgment in a tight-knit vineyard town.

The vineyard owner who initially refuses to hire Ernesto and Giancarlo but ultimately concedes when the harvest depends on the workers. He embodies pragmatism in the face of economic pressure, balancing the need for labor with distrust of outsiders.

A young woman who initially shows hospitality to the newcomers and soon develops genuine affection for Giancarlo. Her growing love for him and her defense of him against accusations complicate the romance and social dynamics within the household.

Louis and Leone’s daughter, a curious young girl who stumbles upon Ernesto’s sculpture of Leone. Her presence triggers reactions that reveal loyalties and tensions within the community and culminate in a decisive, tragic moment.

Leader of a crew of Spanish pickers who are willing to work with the brothers and integrate into the harvest. His camaraderie helps bridge cultural divides and emphasizes solidarity among laborers in a seasonal economy.

Lucienne’s intended husband, whose jealousy drives him to incite trouble and tip off the police. His actions reflect the danger of concealed resentments within a small community and the fragility of social status.

A relative mentioned in passing who illustrates the close-knit family network surrounding the Morels and the tensions that can spill into the vineyard life.

The elderly destabilizing presence who is revealed to steal chickens and trade them for chocolate, contributing to the sense of suspicion and the chance that small-town life harbors hidden criminal acts.