Grape Growing - Viticulture Flashcards
What is the definition of Viticulture?
The art and science of vine growing.
Location & Geography: what are four considerations?
- Site Selection: where exactly the grapes will be grown.
- Goals: the goals of the winemaker
- Regional Laws: are specific to each reason
- Financial Considerations: can be expensive but depends on region
What is the definition of climate?
Weather conditions in an area in general or over a long period of time. Includes temperature, humidity, air pressure, air pressure, rain fall, sunshine, cloud cover, and wind.
What is a macro-, meso-, and micro-climate?
Microclimate: entire region
Mesoclimate: particular vineyard
Microclimate: single vine rows
What is a continental climate?
Strong annual temperature variations due to lack of proximity to bodies of water. Hotter summers and colder winters.
What is a maritime climate?
A climate influenced by a large body of water. Mild temperature variations throughout the year.
What is a Mediterranean climate?
Hot and dry summers, coastal summers are mild due to cold water proximity.
What is a high desert climate?
Hot and dry summer. Daytime high temperatures, nighttime low temperatures.
What is a diurnal shift?
The difference between the average daytime high temperature and nighttime low temperature. This can affect the ripening of grapes and balance of sugar and acid.
What are sunshine hours?
The number of sunshine hours a vineyard or wine region receives in a vintage or growing season
What do bodies of water do?
They can cool or warm a region. Ex: river, lake, ocean
What does altitude do for grape growing?
Every 100 meter rise in elevation, temperature drops by one degree in warm/hot regions. Increased elevation = cooler temperatures that slow down grape ripening
What does wind do for grape growing?
Depending on the direction, grape growing can 1) cool a region, 2) warm and dry the air, and 3) help prevent mold.
What is the rain shadow effect?
One side of the mountain is dry while the opposite side is experiencing poor weather.
What is the benefit of growing grapes on the hillside?
1) better soil drainage
2) less fertile soil due to erosion
3) lower chance of frost
4) harder to maintain during growing and harvest