Canada

Question 1

Which Canadian provinces dominate wine production?

Answer 1

Ontario
British Columbia

Question 2

What are the two regional appellations within Niagara Peninsula?

Answer 2

Niagara Escarpment
Niagara on-the-Lake

Question 3

True or false?

British Columbia’s vineyards are further south than Ontario’s.

Answer 3

False

Question 4

Describe wine production in Canada.

Answer 4

Canada’s vineyards lie between 4° and 51°N, which generally means cooler climates and shorter growing seasons. However, the climates in the vineyards across Canada are diverse; in British Columbia, summer daytime temperatures can reach 30°C and winter temperatures can drop to below - 20°C.

As a result, most Canadian vineyards are planted near lakes which moderate temperatures. However, these can cause increased levels of humidity, which, in turn, increases the risk of fungal diseases. Temperatures must be below - 8°C before the grapes for Icewine can be harvested.

Question 5

Briefly describe the importance of canopy management in most Canadian vineyards, and identify the commonly used techniques.

Answer 5

High humidity levels for vineyards located near the lakes can lead to an increase in disease pressure from fungal diseases, mainly powdery and downy mildew and botrytis. To combat and help reduce fungal diseases, careful canopy management needs to be employed. Currently VSP is the most common type of trellising system used and it is beneficial as shoots are positioned vertically increasing airflow in the canopy. During the growing season airflow needs to be maintained by removing excess buds and shoots, positioning the shoots, topping of the vines (if needed) and leaf removal around the fruiting zone after fruit set. All these techniques help reduce fungal disease pressure.

Question 6

Using bullet points, briefly identify why Vidal is an appropriate grape variety for producing Icewine in Canada.

Answer 6

• Slow ripening so can withstand a long growing season into winter.
• Has high acidity which it retains, this helps balance sweetness.
• Has thick skins, meaning it’s not as susceptible to botrytis.
• It is a hybrid that can withstand cold conditions, perfect for Canada’s harsh winters.