3 - Site selection

Question 1

What factors influence the suitability of a site for growing grapevines?

Answer 1

Climate, altitude, aspect, soil type, and drainage are among the factors that influence the suitability of a site for growing grapevines.

Question 2

What are the three levels of climate considered in site selection?

Answer 2

Macroclimate, mesoclimate, and microclimate.

Question 3

What is macroclimate?

Answer 3

Macroclimate describes the climate at a regional level, which can be determined by amalgamating results from multiple weather stations.

Question 4

What is mesoclimate?

Answer 4

Mesoclimate describes the climate in a smaller region, such as an individual vineyard or estate, influenced by factors like height above sea level, shelter from winds, and slope.

Question 5

What is microclimate?

Answer 5

Microclimate refers to the climate that affects an individual vine, including the conditions within the vine’s canopy and its immediate surroundings.

Question 6

What role does altitude play in site selection for vineyards?

Answer 6

As altitude increases, the annual mean temperature falls, which can shorten the growing season and delay ripening. In cool regions, suitable sites are usually below 300 m above sea level.

Question 7

Why is the aspect of a site important for vineyard establishment?

Answer 7

Sites that slope towards the sun receive more incoming solar radiation, which helps with soil warmth and grape ripening, especially at the end of the growing season.

Question 8

How can the presence of bodies of water benefit a vineyard site?

Answer 8

Bodies of water can store heat, which is released during the winter to warm the air, and can help equalize daytime temperatures and humidity levels during the summer.

Question 9

What is the diurnal temperature range, and why is it significant?

Answer 9

The diurnal temperature range is the difference between day-time maximum and night-time minimum temperatures. It affects ripening speed, acid retention, and sugar accumulation in grapes.

Question 10

How does soil type impact the decision of where to plant a vineyard?

Answer 10

The type and depth of soil affect water and nutrient availability, drainage, and root growth, all of which influence vine health and grape quality.