Carotenoids are widely distributed chemical compounds representing one of the largest groups of pigments in nature, playing an irreplaceable role in the photosynthetic activity of plants. They are defined as isoprenoids that contribute to photosynthetic activity by capturing sunlight energy into reaction centers of photosynthesis, absorbing sunlight wavelengths from 450 to 500 nm. Carotenoids are best known as antioxidants which protect the cells from photochemical damage, and they have the ability to remove free radicals and thus play an important role in the plant's defense mechanism. Their presence in grapevine is essential to the development and survival of leaves and plant in general. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in carotenoid compound development in leaves which occurs during ontogeny. Leaf samples were collected periodically, starting from the post‐flowering period and ending just before the technological maturity of grapevine varieties. In this study, samples were taken from 10 autochthonous white varieties and 2 introduced white varieties. Leaf samples were properly stored, lyophilized and later extracted with a proper method. The later analysis was conducted with high‐performance liquid chromatography. The final step included processing the results with ANOVA test in combination with post‐hoc Duncan test. In conclusion, a significant difference was found between the individual. A significant level of difference was also determined in the same grapevine variety observed in different sampling periods. As a result of the environmental conditions influence and the ageing of leaves, carotenoid content is degrading and as well as photosynthetic activity.