Northern Italy

Question 1

What are the 5 regions of Northern Italy?

Answer 1

Piemonte, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino, and Alto Adige.

Question 2

Describe the climate and grape growing techniques of Northern Italy.

Answer 2

Hillsides and foothills of the alps and on the plains of rivers. Moderate climate, dry, short summers. The Alps form a barrier that extends the length of the north Italian border, and shelter the vineyards from the rain. Local rivers and glacial lakes such as Lake Garda provide a moderating influence to inland areas. Areas that lie close to the sea can have higher levels of rainfall, meaning the fungal diseases can be a problem.

Question 3

Describe the grape growing style of Northern Italy.

Answer 3

Vineyards in northern italy were traditionally planted with high yielding vines at low densities. Pergola (complex trellising system) was common. Vine canopy is trained high with the fruit hanging down bleow a horizontal canopy of leaves. This protects the grapes from sunburn as well as allowing are to circulate, minimising hte risk of rot. Pergolas are still used when high acidity and low sugar levels are required (such as for sparkling wine grapes) and also when wines are to be made from dried grapes, which need to be free from damage and disease. However, higher density plantings using VSP training are now more common.

Question 4

What is a Pergola?

Answer 4

Complex trellising system.