C35 - Canada (reviewed) Flashcards

1
Q

What is the general climate in Canada?

A

Continental throughout

Although average annual temperatures are low, July and August have very hightemperature extremes moderated large lakes

Winter: Temperatures can drop far below zero for long periods long, freezing winters ideal for Icewine

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2
Q

What are the main DVAs

A
  • Ontario: Three, most important : Niagara Peninsula
  • British Columbia - five, most important Okanagan Valley
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3
Q

Discuss Niagara Peninsula climate

A

On the south-western corner of Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario cools down and heats up more slowly than the surrounding land,

  • Delays budburst in spring helps to minimise frost damage
  • Extends the growing season in Autumn which allows grapes to ripen fully
  • Increases air flow helps to reduce fungal disease
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4
Q

Discuss Niagara Peninsula white varieties

A
  • Most successful variety: Riesling
    • Fresh, fruity, dry and off-dry whites
  • Vidal: The finest Icewines
    • A hardy hybrid with little character as a dry wine but makes good Icewines (though without the acid structure or aromatic complexity of Riesling)
  • Chardonnay: Good quality, Dry, Pure fruit and restrained oak
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5
Q

What are the black varieties most commonly grown in Niagara Peninsula?

A

Pinot Noir

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Cabernet Franc

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6
Q

Where in Canada is British Columbia?

A

The west coast

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7
Q

Describe the climate of Okanagan Valley

A
  • In the rain shadow of two mountain ranges which are on either side of the valley so very low annual average rainfall
  • Semi-desert environment
  • Due to latitude, day length is very long during the growing season and this prolongs the time in which photosynthesis can take place, aiding grape ripening
  • Glacial lakes help to moderate temperature, extending the growing season - It enables successful ripening of grapes in the north, and black grapes in the south
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8
Q

What are the most widely planted grapes in Okanagan Valley?

A

Merlot

Pinot Gris

Pinot Noir

Chardonnay

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9
Q

Other than still, dry wines, what else is produced in Okanagan Valley?

A

Icewine from Riesling or Vidal

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10
Q

What is the appellation system of Canada?

A

Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA)

  • Used by Ontario and British Columbia
  • VQAs are divided into Designated Viticultural Areas (DVAs)
  • DVAs are divided into regional appellations, then sub-appellations
  • Every VQA wine must be made 100% grapes that are grown in that province
  • They must be made 100% from V. vinifera varieties or selected hybrid
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