Vineyard Variability
The abundance of variables in and around a vineyard can seem overwhelming. Understanding these variables, is the key to precision vineyard management.
Just to name a few
There are so many considerations for your vineyard and I want to help you understand them, map them, and get the most out of the vines you want to grow.
Terrior / Soil
The terrior and soil for a given area are incredibly important factors to consider. Understanding the soil type and composition of clay, silt, and sand can be a determining factor for the wines that you can produce.
Slope / Aspect
Given your geographic location and local climatic factors the right slope could make or break your vineyards health. Aspect can play a similar role. Sun exposure differences from various aspects can affect ripening.
Vine Spacing
The amount of space you have, coupled with the varietals you want to plant and the training system best suited to your vines; it is crucial to have appropriate vine spacing to ensure vineyard health optimum yield.
Disease / Pest Management
Being able to see and identify various types of diseases and pests, is no easy feat. Being able to understand why you have worsening cases of plasmopara viticola each year can be even worse.
Training Systems
There are over 100 training systems used throughout the world. Knowing which one is best for you is dependent on an number of factors. But with the right one, we can make sure your vines thrive for years to come.
Winter Pruning
An essential practice for your vines. Understanding the right time to start and the best practices for preserving vine health are critical to the future of your wines, winery, and finances.
Shoot Thinning / Shoot Trimming
Here knowing why is just as important as knowing how. Removing the wrong shoots could result in a negative effect on future yields and wrong trimming practices could risk harmful effects to your current yields.
Cluster Thinning
A potentially critical practice, that may seem counterintuitive, can help balance your vines and promote higher concentration in your clusters. Understanding how can also improve cluster health.
Leaf Removal
As a universal truth, too much of a good thing can ending up having negative consequences. Understanding the appropriate number of leaf layers and the overall age of your vines and shoots, can be critical for full ripening.
Grafting / Rootstock
You may already have plants in the ground or maybe your roots are failing you due to disease or drainage issues. The right grafting techniques and picking the right rootstock can save you from having to replant or start over.
Water Stress
Stress isn’t always good. There is a myth that stress always equates to improved quality. Water stress when properly utilized can be a powerful tool, but too much can mean the downfall of your vineyard.
Mechanical / Manual Harvesting
Extensive studies have shown that there is no difference in quality between each harvesting method. What is important is knowing which one is best for your specific vineyard and if it makes financial sense moving forward.
Location, location, location
It all begins with an idea and a location. Depending on the grapes you want to grow and the location you have (or want), there are many considerations that need to be address before putting the vines in the ground. I want to help guide you and help you make your visions come to life. Whether its through climate mitigation in preparing for the future, or making sure that the varietal you want to grow, can grow in your desired location.