Canada Flashcards
Why is a majority of Canadas land unsuitable for viticulture?
High latitude and extremes of temperature
What two things pushed quality production in Canada?
- US/Canada trade deal opened Canadian wine market to American imports and removed subsidies from growers
- the Vintners Quality Alliance (appellation system) was established in Ontario and BC
Inland areas of Ontario and BC see what climate?
Extreme continental with hot summers and freezing winters
What moderating natural factor is needed for successful viticulture in Canada and what is its effect?
Lakes- moderate temperatures. Winter- lake effect snow insulates from winter freeze and the lakes reduce the risk of winter freeze all around
Fall- retain and release summer heat to lengthen growing season
Spring- retains and releases winter cold to delay bud break past risk of frost
Canadas vineyards sit at what latitudes?
41-51*N
Humidity near lakes increase the need for what mitigation?
Sprays for fungus/ canopy mgmt to improve air flow - VSP most common training
Which hybrid makes the majority of ice wine?
Vidal
Why does Vidal make the majority of ice wine in Canada?
It is cold hardy, can withstand the extreme winters, high acid, slow ripening, and has thick skins to withstand the freeze/thaw cycles of ice wine
Why is ice wine expensive?
Yields are low due to concentration of sugars from freezing, dehydration of late harvest, predators, bad weather, and rot. Labor is expensive, hand harvesting at night in freezing temps is not ideal, mechanization available where able.
VQA variety on label %
85%
VQA blend on label %
95%
In Ontario, where are vineyards planted?
Near lakes Erie and Ontario for moderating influence on extreme temperatures
What is the most planted variety in Ontario
Vidal
90% of Canadas ice wine comes from what province?
Ontario
Ontarios most planted vinifera?
Riesling and Chardonnay