16. England and Wales Flashcards
The three traditional Champagne varieties account for what per cent of planting in England and Wales?
75%
What are two key characteristics of sparkling wine from England and Wales?
1) Very high acidity
2) Just-ripe fruit
All vineyards in England and Wales are above what latitude?
50 degrees
Where are most of the UK’s vineyards located?
The south east (2/3)
What is the climate of the UK and Wales?
Cool maritime.
What has allowed England and Wales to create sparkling wine?
A 1 degree celcius increase in the average growing season temperature (13-14).
What two factors have increased the risk of frost damage in England and Wales?
1) Earlier budding due to warmer springs
2) An increase in the planting of early budding varieties (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir).
What is the biggest threat to yields in England and Wales?
Prolonged rain in June and July can affect flowering and fruit set.
What are the two highest priorities for viticulturists in England and Wales?
1) Spraying against fungal disease
2) Managing the financial risks of yield/quality fluctuations.
What are the four important site selection considerations in England and Wales?
1) South-facing slopes
2) Protection from south-west winds
3) Good drainage
4) Altitude below 125m
What are the two main soil types in England and Wales?
1) Clay
2) Chalk
Where are chalk soils most common? Counties and vineyard location.
1) Sussex & Hampshire
2) On slopes at higher elevations.
Why are new vineyards planted at a medium density (4-5,000 VPH)?
To increase root competition and contain canopy vigour.
How are vines typically trained & trellised?
1) Guyot
2) VSP
Which three other varieties are permitted in English PDO sparkling wine?
1) Pinot Noir Precoce
2) Pinot Blanc
3) Pinot Gris
