Viticulture Flashcards
Most Common Grape Species
Vitis Aestivalis
Vitis Berlandieri
Vitis Labrusca
Vitis Riparia
Vitis Rotundifolia
Vitis Rupestris
Vitis Vinifera
Bench grafting
Joining together a desired variety with a rootstock variety by machine in a warm environment, such as a greenhouse or nursery
Why is warmth essential for bench grafting?
Encourages the vines to fuse together
What kind of vines are used for bench grafting?
Young Vines
Berry Set
Just after flowering, each fertilized flower becomes a berry
French term for Budburst/Budbreak
Débourrement
Budburst/Budbreak
The first new green tissue emerges from each bud
Budswell
Buds become larger, indicating the onset of Budburst/budbreak
Clone
Offspring that is genetically identical to its parent
How are clones obtained?
Through vegetative propagation from cuttings
How are vines for clones selected?
Based on desired attribute such as cold tolerance, final wine characteristics, resistance to disease, vigor, yields, and more.
Mutations can occur as the vine matures
Crossing
Offspring created by breeding two different grape varieties
Dry Farming
When a vintner decides not to apply any water to the vineyard
Field grafting
Takes place in the vineyards with mature vines. If a vintner decides to change the grape variety between seasons, the existing vine is cut back to the trunk and a bud, or cutting, of the desired variety is grafted onto the trunk
How long does it take a newly planted vine to bear mature fruit?
3 years
What is the advantage of field grafting?
Less expensive
Following vintage will produce the newly grafted grape variety (vs 3 years for newly planted)
Another name for Field Grafting
Head Grafting
French term for Flowering/Anthesis
Floraison
Flowering/Anthesis
Pollen is released and fertilization occurs.
Are insects required for wine grapevines to pollinate?
No, wine grapevines self-pollinate
Graft Union
Scar tissue where the rootstock and scion were grafted
Why is grafting a common practice?
Due to the poor immune system of vines
Grafting
Process where the scion of one vine is connected to the rootstock of another vine and secured until the vine heals the wound and the two grow as one
Two common methods of grafting
Bench grafting
Field grafting (head grafting)
Green drop/Harvest
Crop-thinning pass made just after veraison to remove less ripe, green clusters
When is green drop/harvest done?
Just after veraison
French term for hens and chicks
Millerandage
Millerandage
Grape clusters with berries that vary in size and number of seeds.
What causes Millerandage?
Cold weather at flowering, mineral deficiency, or disease
What is the result of Millerandage?
Reduced yields and uneven ripening
French term for Hybrid
Hybride
Hybrid
Offspring created by breeding two different grape species. Created via cross-pollination of the two parents
How are hybrids created?
By cross-pollinating the two different grape species parents
What is the difference between a crossing and a hybrid?
Hybrids are created via two different grape species
Crossings are created via two different grape varieties
Inflorescence
Cluster of flowers that, after berry set, becomes a grape cluster
French term for leafing
Effeuillage
Leafing
Process where leaves are removed from the canopy to reduce disease pressure or increase the amount of sunlight on the fruit
Why is leafing done?
To reduce disease pressure or increase the amount of sunlight on the fruit
French term for Marcottage or Layering
Provignage (“en foule”)
What is Marcottage/Layering?
Method of propagating vines by burying one cane to make another vine
French term for Pruning
Taille
Pruning
Process where excess wood is removed from the dormant vine, strategically leaving only buds that will produce shoots this year
French term for rootstock
Porte-greffe
Rootstock
Portion of the vine in contact with the soil. Rootstocks are typically phylloxera resistant
French term for Mass Selection
Selection Massale
Mass Selection
Selected budwood from multiple vines are planted in one vineyard
How is the budwood selected for Mass Selection/Selection Massale?
Based on desired attributes in order to promote growth in the vineyard, serve as an insurance plan, and often to increase complexity in the final wine
Scion
Portion of the vine above ground
(To combat phylloxera, grapevines are comprised of two vines that have been grafted together)
Typically, what species is the scion?
Vitis Vinifera
Shot berries
Small, hard green berries that contain no seeds
Suckering
Process of removing small, unwanted shoots that grow from latent buds on the trunk and cordon
Topping
Hedging the top of the vine to prevent it from growing taller
French term for Uneven set
Coulure
Coulure
Uneven set, occurs when a significant number of berries do not set after flowering
What causes Coulure?
Cold weather during flowering or a mineral deficiency
What is the result of Coulure?
Reduced yields
Ungrafted vines
Term used to describe a vine that is on its original rootstock
What is true about ungrafted vines?
Typically very old, resulting in lower, but more concentrated production
Veraison/Véraison
Marks the start of ripening in the berries. Red grapes change color from green to red, sugar and flavor accumulation begins, acid is degraded, and the berry softens
What happens at veraison?
Red grapes change color from green to red
Sugar and flavor accumulation begins
Acid is degraded
Berry softens
Nickname of Vitis Aestivalis
Summer Grape
Nickname of Vitis Berlandieri
Fall Grape
Nickname of Vitis Labrusca
Fox Grape
Nickname of Vitis Riparia
Riverbank Grape
Nickname of Vitis Rupestris
Rock Grape
What is reported to be the oldest variety in America for commercial production?
Vitis Aestivalis
Attributes of Vitis Aestivalis
Prefers well draining soils on south facing slopes
High maintenance
Common characteristics to Vitis Vinifera
Does not graft well — so not commonly used for phylloxera protection
Attributes of Vitis Berlandieri
Grows well in limestone-rich soils
Does not root well so not commonly used for phylloxera protection
Attributes of Vitis labrusca
Grows well in cold climates
Commonly used for the production of kosher and dessert wines
Known for a distinct “foxy” aroma
Disease prone so not commonly used for phylloxera protection
Which American rootstock is commonly used in the production of kosher and dessert wine?
Vitis Labrusca
Attributes of Vitis Riparia
Grows well in cold climates as well as hot, humid climates
Commonly used for phylloxera protection due to climate tolerance, disease resistance, and its ability to root well
Attributes of Vitis rotundifolia
Grows well in regions with abundant sun exposure
Very disease resistant and known for highly floral, musky aromas
Attributes of Vitis Rupestris
Drought and disease resistant
Deep rooting
Grows well in rocky soils
Commonly used for phylloxera and hybrid production
Which American rootstocks are commonly used for phylloxera protection?
Vitis Riparia and Vitis Rupestris
Where is Vitis Aestivalis commonly planted?
Missouri
Where is Vitis Berlandieri commonly planted?
Texas
Where was Vitis labrusca developed?
Where is it commonly planted?
Massachusetts
Michigan/New York
Where is Vitis Riparia commonly planted?
Michigan and higher elevations throughout the USA
Where is Vitis rotundifolia commonly planted?
North Carolina
Where is Vitis Rupestris commonly planted?
Missouri
Which two American grape species are commonly planted in Missouri?
Vitis Aestivalis and Vitis Rupestris
What are the commonly used hybrids?
Catawba
Clinton
Concord
Cunningham
Cynthiana
Delaware
Herbemont
Isabella
Jacques
Noah
Norton
Taylor
Name two commonly used hybrids that are white varieties.
Noah and Taylor (Taylor is the parent of Noah)
Catawba
Labrusca x ?
Red Variety
Widely grown in Missouri and Arkansas
Clinton
Labrusca x Riparia
Red Variety
Some plantings in Europe
Concord
Labrusca x Vinifera
Red Variety
Commonly used for sweet wine production in North America in addition to its commercial uses
Cunningham
Aestivalis x ?
Red Variety
Commonly planted in Eastern Europe and Texas
Resistant to Pierce’s Disease
Cynthiana
Aestivalis x ?
Red Variety
Commonly planted in Missouri and Virginia
Delaware (Hybrid)
Vinifera x Aestivalis
Red Variety
Often used for American sparkling wines
Herbemont
Aestivalis x ?
Red Variety
Commonly planted in Eastern Europe and Texas
Resistant to Pierce’s disease
Isabella (Hybrid)
Labrusca x Vinifera
Red Variety
Commonly planted in tropical climates
Jacquez (Hybrid)
Aestivalis x ?
Red Variety
Commonly planted in Eastern Europe and Texas
Resistant to Pierce’s Disease
Noah (Hybrid)
Labrusca x Riparia
White Variety
Commonly used for Eau-de-vie production in France
Norton (Hybrid)
Aestivalis x ?
Red Variety
Commonly planted in Missouri and Virginia
Taylor (Hybrid)
Labrusca x Riparia
White Variety
Commonly used as rootstocks in France
Parent grape of Noah
What are Field Spray Preparations?
Biodynamic preparations that are prepared as a team and sprayed on the soil or vine canopy.
Just before application, the teas are dynamited, or stirred vigorously by hand or stick until a vortex forms, alternating direction every 30 to 60 seconds for 1 hour
What are compost preparations?
Biodynamic preparations that are used to treat compost 6 months before the compost is applied to the vineyard
What are the 3 Field Spray Biodynamic Preparations?
BD Prep 500 - Manure
BD Prep 501 - Silica
BD Prep 508 - Horsetail Plant
What are the 6 Compost Biodynamic Preparations?
BD Prep 502 - Yarrow Flowers
BD Prep 503 - Chamomile Flowers
BD Prep 504 - Stinging Nettles
BD Prep 505 - Oak Bark
BD Prep 506 - Dandelion Flowers
BD Prep 507 - Valerian Flowers
What is BD Prep 500?
Field Spray Biodynamic Preparation
Manure from a lactating cow placed inside a cow horn and buried during winter
What does BD Prep 500 use?
Fertilizer
Stimulates soil microbial life and encourages root growth
How is BD Prep 500 applied?
Applied in the spring and fall, preferably within half an hour of sunset, on recently worked soil
What is BD Prep 501
Field Spray Biodynamic Preparation
Paste of silica (powdered quartz) and water placed inside a cowhorn and buried during summer
What does BD Prep 501 do?
Assists with ripening & pests
Encourages photosynthesis & ripening
When is BD Prep 501 applied?
Applied in the late spring or early summer, preferably at sunrise and never on young vines. Must be applied after Prep 500
What is BD Prep 508
Field Spray Preparation
Horsetail plant boiled into a tea
What does BD Prep 508 do?
Anti-Fungal
Fights fungal infections
How is BD Prep 508 applied?
Can be combined with fungicide and sprayed on the vine or fermented first and sprayed on the soil during the waxing moon.
Must be applied after Preps 500 and 501
What is BD Prep 502
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Yarrow Flowers stuffed into deer bladder, dried in the sun, and buried over winter
What is the purpose of BD Prep 502?
Healing Wounds
Aids in the absorption of nutrients from the soil
How is BD Prep 502 applied?
Added individually to holes in the compost pile
What is BD Prep 503?
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Chamomile flowers stuffed into a cow intestine, dried in the sun, and buried over winter
What is the purpose of BD Prep 503?
Anti-septic
Stabilizes calcium and nitrogen
How is BD Prep 503 applied?
Added individually to holes in the compost pile
What is BD Prep 504?
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Stinging nettles buried for a year
What is the purpose of BD Prep 504?
Cleanser
Helps breakdown materials inside compost
How is BD Prep 504 applied?
Added individually to holes in the compost pile
What is BD Prep 505?
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Oak bark stuffed inside the skull of a farm animal and stored somewhere moist for the winter
What is the purpose of BD Prep 505?
Reduces soil acidity
Wards off disease
Prevents excessive plant growth
How is BD Prep 505 applied?
Added individually to holes in the compost pile
What is BD Prep 506?
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Dandelion flowers stuffed into the connective tissues of a cow’s stomach, dried in the sun, and buried over the winter
What is the purpose of BD Prep 506?
Aids uptake of silica and potassium
How is BD Prep 506 applied?
Added individually to holes in the compost pile
What is BD Prep 507?
Compost Biodynamic Preparation
Valerian flowers, pressed into a juice
What is the purpose of BD Prep 507?
Heats compost and adds phosphorous
How is BD Prep 507 applied?
Prepared as a tea, dynamited and sprayed onto the compost pile
What is the proper order of Field Spray Preparations?
500 (Manure), 501 (Silica), 508 (Horseplant)
All of the compost biodynamic preparations are added individually to holes in the compost pile except for which one?
BD Prep 507 — it is prepared as a tea, dynamited, and sprayed onto the compost pile
How many nutrients are required by grapevines for essential function?
17
What happens if grapevines receive too many nutrients?
High vigor/overproduction
What happens if a grapevine receives too few nutrients?
Chlorosis
What happens with chlorosis?
It occurs when photosynthesis is restricted as a result of too few nutrients in the vine — The leaves will turn yellow and the vine will eventually die.
What is the Winkler Index?
Classification of the climate of winemaking regions based on Growing Degree Days (GDD)
What is a degree day according to the Winkler Index?
A day over 50F, during the growing season
Northern - April 1st to October 31st
Southern - October 1st to April 30th
For each degree over 50F, the region received one degree day.
What is the growing season in the Northern Hemisphere according to the Winkler Index?
April 1st to October 31st
What is the growing season in the Southern Hemisphere according to the Winkler Index?
October 1st to April 30th
How is the climate zone calculated for the Winkler Index?
For each degree over 50F during the growing season, the region receives one degree day. The number is then added to the sum — giving you the climate zone for the region
What are the climate zones for the Winkler Index?
Ia (coolest)
Ib
II
III
IV
V (warmest)
How many degree days does Ia (the coolest climate zone) have during the growing season?
1500 to 2000
How does the Winkler Index define the Ia (Coolest) climate zone as far as suitability for grape growing?
Only very early-ripening varieties achieve high quality.
Mostly hybrid varieties and some Vitis Vinifera
What places are associated with the Ia (coolest) climate zone for the Winkler Index?
Central Otago, New Zealand
Champagne, France
Kent, England
Kremstal, Austria
Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan
Nova Scotia, Canada
Okanagan Valley, Canada
Puget Sound, Washington
Rio Negro, Argentina
Ruwer, Germany
Sussex, England
Tasmania, Australia
Valais, Switzerland
How many degree days are present in the Ib climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
2001-2500
What is the suitability for grape growing in the Ib climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Only early-ripening varieties achieve high quality
Some hybrid grape varieties, but mostly Vitis Vinifera
What places are associated with the Ib climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Adelaide Hills, Australia
Alsace, France
Baden, Germany
Burgundy, France
Central Coast, California
Muscadet, France
Marlborough, New Zealand
Niagara Peninsula, Canada
Rhine Valley, Germany
Ribera del Duero, Spain
Savoie, France
Tokaj, Hungary
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Yarra Valley, Australia
How many degree days are found in the II climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
2501-3000
What is the suitability for grape growing in the II climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Early and mid-season table wine varieties will produce good-quality varieties
What places are associated with the II climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Alto Adige, Italy
Bordeaux, France
Columbia Valley, Washington
Coonawarra, Australia
Curico Valley, Chile
Douro Valley, Portugal
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
Piedmont, Italy
Rias Baixas, Spain
Walker Bay, South Africa
How many degree days are found in the III climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
3501-4000
What is the suitability for grape growing in the III climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Favorable for high production of standard- to good-quality table wines
What places are associated with the III climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Barossa Valley, Australia
Clare Valley, Australia
Friuli, Italy
Margaret River, Australia
McLaren Vale, Australia
Mendocino, California
Monticello, Virginia
Northern Rhône, France
Paso Robles, California
Rioja, Spain
Rutherglen, Australia
Sonoma Valley, California
Thracian Valley, Bulgaria
Umbria, Italy
How many degree days are found in the IV climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
3501-4000
What is the suitability of grape growing in the IV climate zone of the Winkler Index?
Favorable for high production but acceptable table wine quality at best
What places are associated with the IV climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Alentejo, Portugal
Catalunya, Spain
Corsica, France
Hunter Valley, Australia
Lisbon, Portugal
Languedoc, France
Napa Valley, California
Northern Sonoma, California
Roussillon, France
Southern Rhone, France
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Tuscany, Italy
Veneto, Italy
How many degree days are found in the V (warmest) climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
4001-4900
What is the suitability for grape growing in the V (warmest) climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Typically only suitable for extremely high production, fair-quality table wine, or table grape varieties destined for early season consumption
What places are associated with the V (warmest) climate zone according to the Winkler Index?
Jerez, Spain
Lodi, California
Madeira, Portugal
Puglia, Italy
Patras, Greece
Sardinia, Italy
Sicily, Italy
What are the average growing season temperatures for a place defined as Cool climate?
50-59
What regions are associated with a cool climate?
Mosel
Alsace
Champagne
Kremstal
Tasmania
What grape varieties are generally considered suitable for a cool climate?
Hybrids, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
What average temperatures are associated with an Intermediate climate?
59-63
What regions are associated with an intermediate climate?
Burgundy
Loire Valley
Rias Baixas
Baden
Tokay
Okanagan
Willamette Valley
Coonawarra
Hawke’s Bay
What grape varieties are considered suitable for an Intermediate climate?
Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Merlot, Syrah
What are the average temperatures associated with a warm climate?
63-67
What regions are associated with a warm climate?
Bordeaux
Northern Rhone
Southern Rhone
Piedmont
Rioja
Columbia Valley (Washington)
Sonoma Valley
Napa Valley
Curicó (Chile)
Margaret River
What grape varieties are considered suitable for a warm climate?
Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Merlot, Malbec, Viognier, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Grenache, Carignan, Zinfandel, Nebbiolo
What average temperatures are associated with a hot climate?
67-72
What regions are associated with a hot climate?
Corsica
Sicily
Tuscany
Jerez
Douro
Madeira
Peloponnese
Mendoza
Barossa
Stellenbosch
Hunter Valley
What grape varieties are considered suitable for a hot climate?
Sangiovese, Grenache, Carignan, Zinfandel, Muscat, Verdelho, Fiano, Palomino, Nero d’Avola, Table Grapes
What wind affects the Great Southern region?
What type of wind is it?
Albany Doctor
Cool
What wind affects the Southern France
What type of wind is it?
Autan
Warm and Dry
What winds affect South Africa?
Benguela Current - Cool
Berg - Hot and Dry
Cape Doctor - Dry
What wind affects Switzerland?
What type of wind is it?
Bise
Cold
What wind affects NE Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia?
What type of wind is it?
Bora
Cold and Dry
What wind affects Southeastern Australia?
What type of wind is it?
Brickfielder
Hot and Dry
What wind affects the Canary Islands?
What type of wind is it?
Calima
Hot
What wind affects Canterbury?
What type of wind is it?
Canterbury Northwester
Warm and Dry
What winds affect Priorat?
What type of wind is it?
Cerç - Cool and Dry
Garbinada - Cool and Humid
What winds affect Languedoc?
What type of wind is it?
Cers - Dry
Marin - Hot and Humid
Tramontane - Cool and Dry
What wind affects British Columbia?
What type of wind is it?
Chinook
Warm and Wet
What wind affects Rioja?
What type of wind is it?
Cierzo
Dry
What are the Coastal Pacific Winds?
Which regions do they impact?
Chalk Hill Gap - Napa and Sonoma
Petaluma Gap - Napa and Sonoma
Salinas River Valley - Santa Lucia Highlands
Templeton Gap - Paso Robles
Van Duzer Corridor - Willamette Valley
What wind affects Northern California?
What type of wind is it?
Delta Breezes
Cool
What wind affects Contra Costa?
What type of wind is it?
Diablo
Hot and Dry
What wind affects Austria and Germany?
What type of wind is it?
Foehn
Warm and Dry
What wind affects Western Australia?
What type of wind is it?
Fremantle Doctor
Cool
What winds affect Corsica?
What types of wind are they?
Garigliano - Cool and Dry
Libeccio - Dry
What wind affects Sicily?
What type of wind is it?
Grecale
Cool
What wind affects Bordeaux?
What type of wind is it?
Gulf Stream
Humid
What winds affect Chile?
What types of wind are they?
Humboldt Current - Cool
Puelche - Warm and Dry
What wind affects Bulgaria?
What type of wind is it?
Karajol
Dry
What winds affect Sherry?
What types of wind are they?
Lavante - Hot and Dry
Poniente - Cool and Humid
What wind affects the French-Italian Riviera?
What type of wind is it?
Lombarde
Dry
What wine affects the Aegean Islands?
What type of wind is it?
Meltemi
Dry
What wind affects Rhône Valley?
What type of wind is it?
Mistral
Cold and Dry
What wind affects Brazil and Uruguay?
What type of wind is it?
Pampero
Cold and Dry
What wind affects New Zealand?
What type of wind is it?
Roaring 40s (Raukawa)
Strong
What wind affects Baja and Northern California?
What type of wind is it?
Santa Ana
Hot and Dry
What wind affects the Mediterranean?
What type of wind is it?
Sirocco (Scirocco)
Hot and Humid
What wind affects Israel?
What type of wind is it?
Sharav
Hot and Humid
What wind affects New South Wales?
What type of wind is it?
Sharav
Hot and Humid
What wind affects New South Wales?
What type of wind is it?
Southerly Buster
Cool
What winds affect Argentina?
What types of wind are they?
Sudestada - Cool
Zonda - Hot and Dry
What wind affects Santa Barbara?
What type of wind is it?
Sundowner
Hot and Dry
What wind affects Macedonia and Northern Greece?
What type of wind is it?
Vardar
Cold
What are the options for disease and pest management in the vineyard?
Synthetic chemicals (non-degradable)
Natural applications
Sexual confusion
Vine uprooting
Examples of synthetic chemicals that can be used for disease and pest management
Fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides
What is important in regards to synthetic chemical use in the vineyard?
Spraying must cease at least 2 weeks prior to harvest to ensure there are no harmful chemical residues in the wine
Examples of natural applications of disease and pest management
Diatomaceous Earth, Herbal solutions, natural oils, organic manure, recycled pomace
Examples of sexual confusion options for disease and pest management
Pheromone capsules, mating disruption dispensers, diffusers, solution pads
What are the 6 Fungal Diseases that affect vines?
Powdery Mildew (Oidium)
Downy Mildew (Peronospora)
Eutypa Dieback (Dead Arm)
Esca (Black Measles)
Bunch Rot (Grey Rot)
Black Rot
What are the 2 Viral diseases that affect vines?
Leafroll Virus
Fanleaf Degeneration
What are the 3 Bacterial Diseases that affect vines?
Pierce’s Disease
Crown Gall (Black Knot)
Bacterial Blight
What Phytoplasmic Disease affects vines?
Flavescense Dorée
What are the 3 Pests that affect vines?
Phylloxera vastatrix (Daktulsphaira vitfoliae)
European Grapevine Moth (Lobesia botrana)
Glass Winged Sharp Shooter (Homalodisca vitripennis)
Powder Mildew (Oidium)
Fungal Disease native to North America that affects the green parts of the vine and berries.
It presents as a dusty white film, and is controlled by sulphuric sprays.
Downy Mildew (Peronospora)
Fungal disease native to North America that affects the green parts of the vines and causes leaves to fall off, limiting photosynthesis.
Presents as a fuzzy white growth on the underside of leaves.
Controlled by the Bordeaux mixture.
Bordeaux mixture
Developed in 1855.
It is a blue colored, copper sulfate, water, and lime mixture used to control Down Mildew
Eutypa Dieback (Dead Arm)
Common in Mediterranean climates, it is a fungal toxic trunk disease that reduces vine yields.
Does not affect quality of the fruit.
No cure
Esca (Black Measles)
Fungal disease that rots the vine from within the drunk.
Spread by wine, rain, or dirty tools.
No cure
Bunch rot (Grey Rot)
Fungal disease caused by Botrytis cinerea in wet and humid conditions.
Reduces yields and rots berries.
Controlled by fungicides.
Black Rot
Native to North America.
Caused by Guignardia bidwellii in hot and humid conditions.
Fungal disease that affects all green parts of the vine and berries. Presents as black spots.
Controlled by fungicides.
Leafroll Virus
Viral disease spread by mealy bugs or dirty tools.
Causes leaves to turn red/gold and curl downwards limiting photosynthesis.
There is no cure.
What is important to note about viral diseases on vines?
They rarely kill vines. Rather they delay ripening, reduce yields, and reduce quality
Fanleaf degeneration
Viral disease spread by nematodes.
Limits shoot growth, causes pure fruit set, and deforms leaves with yellow bands around the veins, limiting photosynthesis.
Controlled by propagation selection and vine removal
Pierce’s Disease
Bacterial disease caused by Xylella fastidiosa
Prohibits vine vessels from producing chlorophyll and kills the vine typically within 5 years
No cure
Crown Gallery (Black Knot)
Bacterial disease caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Tumors develop on the vine trunk that slowly strangle the vine
Bacterial Blight
Bacterial disease caused by Xanthomonas campestris
Yellow-brown spots form on the grape leaves and shoots limiting photosynthesis
Flavescense Dorée
Phytoplasmic disease spread by a leafhopper insect (Scaphoius titanus) or by dirty tools.
Causes grape leaves to crack and turn yellow.
Young vines may not be strong enough to survive. Old vines lose productivity.
Commonly controlled by insecticides.
First appeared in Armagnac in 1949
First appearance of Flavescense Dorée
Armagnac in 1949
Phylloxera vitfoliae
Pest that originated in North America
A parthenogenetic aphid that feeds on the roots of the vines as well as lays eggs on the vine and upon hatching can feed on the leaves of the vines
Creates galls on the roots, disrupts photosynthesis, and increases risk of fungal infections
Common cure is to graft onto American rootstock
How does grafting on American rootstock cure Phylloxera?
American rootstock has stickier sap which clogs the mouth of the aphid as well as forms a protective layer over the wound to protect from infections
European Grapevine Moth (Lobesia botrana)
Pest (moth) that lays eggs on grapevines.
Larvae feed on flowers — reducing yields
Common cure is sexual confusion
Glassy Winged Sharp Shooter (Homalodisca vitripennis)
Pest that spreads Pierce’s Disease
When was Phylloxera first discovered? Where?
1850s — Eastern US
Where in Europe was the first place to experience Phylloxera? When?
1863 - Southern England
When was Rhône Valley affected by Phylloxera?
1866
When was Austria affected by Phylloxera?
1868
When was Bordeaux affected by Phylloxera?
1869
What is another name for Provignage (En Foule)
Macottage or Layering
Marcottage/Layering
Method of propagating vines by burying one can to make another vine
What is essential for a vine?
Carbon dioxide, heat, water, sunlight, and nutrients to survive
Another important factor for vine health is diurnal shifts
Moderation is key
How do vines acquire CO2?
From the atmosphere, and through photosynthesis, producing oxygen
What are the dangerous temperatures for vines? What happens at each one?
Below -4 - vines can get frostbite or die
Below 50 - vines become dormant
Above 95 - photosynthetic activity declines
Above 104 - photosynthetic shock
(All are Farenheit)
What cannot occur in a vine without sunlight or water?
Photosynthesis or flowering
How do vines acquire sunlight?
Directly from the sun or reflected by bodies of water
What increases with the amount of sunlight vines are exposed to?
Glucose production
What is used to moderate the amount of sunlight a vine receives?
Canopy management and vine training
What happens if vines receive too much water?
Encourages over production
What happens if a vine receives too little water?
Causes vines to wilt and die
Dry Farming
Viticultural practice where a vintner does not apply any water to the vineyard
What are the 4 most common methods of irrigation?
Partial Root-Zone Drying (PRD)
Regulated Deficiency Irrigation (RDI)
Furrow Irrigation
Flood Irrigation
What is Partial Root-zone drying (PRD)? Where was it developed?
Method of irrigation that only waters one side of the vine at a time
Australia
How does Partial Root-zone Drying (PRD) Irrigation affect the vine?
Water stress creates signals within the vine to adapt, conserve water, and extends photosynthetic activity
Reduces canopy growth and vigor, increases quality, aromatics, and flavors
What is Regulated Deficiency Irrigation (RDI)?
Method of irrigation that regulates, or restricts, the application of water to the vine
When is Regulated Deficiency Irrigation (RDI) done? Why?
Typically irrigation does not occur after flowering to stress the vine, limit crop production and improve fruit quality.
Irrigation often resumes after harvest to ensure the vine’s successful storage of carbohydrates, nutrients, and water during dormancy
What is another name for Furrow Irrigation?
Trench Irrigation
What is Furrow Irrigation/Trench Irrigation?
Method of irrigation commonly used in extremely dry climates. Trenches are dug around the vine rows and filled with water, typically once or twice per year, to replicate a rain season, and allow the vine’s roots to absorb and store water.
Quality wine regions typically employ dry farming for the remainder of the vintage
Is Trench or Furrow Irrigation typically utilized year round?
No, Furrow Irrigation typically occurs once or twice per year to replicate a rain season. Quality wine regions practice dry farming the remainder of the vintage
What is Flood Irrigation?
Method of irrigation commonly used in volume driven areas where a body of water is diverted to run through a vineyard to help increase water absorption to the roots and overall increasing vigor and yields
Micronutrients needed for healthy vine growth
Boron, Chlorine, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Selenium, Sodium, and Zinc
Macronutrients needed for healthy vine growth
Calcium, Magnesium, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium, Silicon, and Sulfur
Diurnal Shifts
Temperature fluctuations from day to night. Optimal conditions are warm days to aide in ripening and cool nights in order to retain acid and flavors.
What moderates diurnal shifts?
Bodies of water
What decreases as altitude increases?
Temperatures
Which way should vineyards face to receive the most amount of sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere?
South
Which way should vineyards face to receive the most amount of sun exposure in the Southern Hemisphere?
North
How does Fog affect vineyards?
Helps to cool vineyard areas
What happens in regards to climate the further a vineyard is from the equator?
Further from the equator, the more sun exposure and the longer the growing day
How do soils affect climate?
Dark and stony soils absorb and radiate heat back up to the vine
Wet soils, such as clay, take longer to absorb heat, which can delay vine growth
How does water affect climate?
Moderate diurnal shifts and reflects sunlight
Continental climate
Greatest difference in temperature between winter and summer, with the most seasonality
Small bodies of water may influence the region
Maritime climate
Cool to moderate temperatures with little temperature variation between winter and summer, with consistent annual rainfall
Large amounts of water influence the region
Mediterranean climate
Cool to moderate temperatures with little temperature variation between winter and summer, with dry summers, and low annual rainfall.
How much of the world has a Mediterranean climate?
4%
How long before vines are capable of grape production?
3 Years
How long before a grapevine is considered mature?
6 years
Regional labelings for old vines
France - Vielles vignes
Germany - Alta Reben
Italy - Vecchie vignette
Spain - Viñas viejas
Catalunya - Vinyas vellas
Portugal - Vinhas velhas
Life cycle of the vine stages
March to February
Bud Break followed by shoot and leaf growth, flowering, fruit set, véraison, harvest, winter dormancy, and winter pruning.
When did the grafting of French vines on American rootstock begin?
1871
When was Burgundy/Argentina affected by Phylloxera?
1878
When was Champagne affected by Phylloxera?
1888
When was Napa Valley affected by Phylloxera?
1920
When did the replanting of Napa Sonoma occur (due to Phylloxera)?
1988-1995
When was the National Phylloxera Management Protocol established?
2009
What region was affected by Phylloxera in 2019?
Walla Walla Valley
Where is Albariza soil found? What are its characteristics?
Southern Spain
White-surfaced soil formed by diatomaceous deposits
(Alberto is synonymous)
Where is Albarese soil found? What are its characteristics?
Chianti
Compact clay and limestone
Where is Albian soil found? What are its characteristics?
Maury, Roussillon
Type of schist
Where is Arène soil found? What are its characteristics?
Beaujolais
Coarse, granitic sand ideally suited to Gamay
Where is Argovian Marl soil found? What are its characteristics?
Côte des Beaune
Chalky, clay-like marl
Where is Arkose soil found? What are its characteristics?
Côtes d’Auvergne
Parts of Beaujolais (eg. St. Amour)
Red, Triassic sandstone consisting of feldspar, quartz, and clay minerals
Where is Aubuis soil found? What are its characteristics?
Touraine - Loire Valley
Stony mix of permeable, fertile, calcareous clays that are said to be well suited to white grape varieties
Highly rated for Chenin Blanc in Vouvray and Montlouis
Where is Barro soil found? What are its characteristics?
Tierra de Barros, Spain
Similar soil to Albariza, but brown in color, sandier, and with less diatomaceous content
While Palomino grapes are grown on Albariza soil, Barro is reserved for Pedro Ximénez
Soil reserved for Pedro Ximénez?
Barro
Where is Bauxite soil found? What are its characteristics?
Coteaux de Baux-de Provence
As well as being a valuable ore mined for aluminum production, bauxite is found in limestone soils of Coteaux de Baux-de-Provence
Where is Boulbènes soil found? What are its characteristics?
Entre-Deux-Mers, Bordeaux
Borderlais name for a very fine siliceous soil that is easily compressed and hard to work. This “beaten” earth covers part of the Entre-Deux-Mers plateau in Bordeaux
Where is Crasse de fer soil found? What are its characteristics?
Libournais area of France
Iron-rich, hard-pan also known as machefer
Where is Entroques soil found? What are its characteristics?
Burgundy (ex. Montagny)
Type of hard limestone found in Burgundy
Where is Gabbro soil found? What are its characteristics?
Muscadet
Dark, coarse-grained igneous rock
Where is Galestro soil found? What are its characteristics?
Tuscany
Rocky, schistous clay soil commonly found in most of Tuscany’s best vineyards
Where is Gore soil found? What are its characteristics?
Beaujolais, St. Joseph, Côtes Roannaise
Pinkish, decomposed granitic arenaceous soil
Where is Greensand soil found? What are its characteristics?
Southeast England
Dark, greenish colored, glauconite-rich sand of Cretaceous origin found in some vineyards in southeast England.
Greensand is often used as a water softener, which is ironic considering that it is found over chalk subsoil, known for its hard water
Where is Greywacke soil found? What are its characteristics?
Germany
South Africa
New Zealand*
Argillaceous rocks that have been formed as recently as a few thousand years ago by rivers depositing mudstone, quartz, and feldspar
Where is Iron-pan soil found? What are its characteristics?
Bordeaux
Sandy, iron-rich hard-pan found in parts of Bordeaux
Where is Jory soil found? What are its characteristics?
Willamette Valley
Volcanic soil, primarily basalt, which is in turn a hard and dense soil that often has a glassy appearance.
One of the two primary soil types found in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, particularly on the lower foothills, such as the Dundee Hills where Pinot Noir excels.
Where is Kimmeridgian soil found? What are its characteristics?
Parts of France
England
A grayish-colored limestone originally identified in, and so named after, the village of Kimmeridge in Dorset, England.
A sticky, calcareous clay containing this limestone is often called Kimmeridgian clay
Where is Lignite soil found? What are its characteristics?
Germany
Champagne
The “brown coal” of Germany and the “black gold” of Champagne, this is a brown carbonaceous material intermediate between coal and peat.
Warm and very fertile, it is mined and used as a natural fertilizer in Champagne.
Where is Llicorella soil found? What are its characteristics?
Priorat, Spain
Catalan name for a black slate and quartz soil found in Priorat, Spain
Where is Macigno soil found? What are its characteristics?
Chianti
Hard grey-blue sandstone found in Chianti
Where is Pelite soil found? What are its characteristics?
Banyuls
Fine-grained clayey-quartz sedimentary rock found in Banyuls in the Roussillon region of France
Where is Peperite soil found? What are its characteristics?
Madeira
Idaho’s Snake River Valley
Limestone or marly rock that has been ejected by volcanic activity and is literally “peppered” with tiny peppercorn-like grains of basalt
Where is Phtanite soil found? What are its characteristics?
Savennières
Coteaux du Layon
Dark-colored sedimentary rock bearing stratas of quartz crystals
Where is Ruedas soil found? What are its characteristics?
Mantilla-Moriles, Spain
Red sandy-limestone soil
Where is Ruffe soil found? What are its characteristics?
Languedoc, particularly in the VIn de Pays des Coteaux de Salagou
Where is Safres soil found? What are its characteristics?
Southern Rhône Valley
Sandy-marl
Where is Saibro soil found? What are its characteristics?
Madeira
Decomposed red tufa soil that is highly regarded in Madeira
Where is Silex soil found? What are its characteristics?
Pouilly-Fumé in the Loire Valley
A hard, flint, clay and limestone rock famously promoted by Didier Dagueneau and others
Where is Steige soil found? What are its characteristics?
Alsace
Type of schist found on the north side of Andlau in Alsace, it has metamorphosed with the Andlau granite and is particularly hard and slaty
It has mixed with the granitic sand from the top of the Grand Cru Kastelberg and makes a dark, stony soil
Where is Terres Blanche soil found? What are its characteristics?
Sancerre
Steep Kimmeridgian marls
Where is Tufa soil found? What are its characteristics?
Orvieto, Umbria
Montalcino, Tuscany
Langhe, Piedmont
Limestone concretion that forms via water dripping through gaps in limestone
Where is Tuff soil found? What are its characteristics?
Taburno, Campania
Balatonfüred-Csopak, Balatonfelvidék, and Balatonboglár around Lake Balaton in Hungary
Galilee, Israel (particularly Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights)
Rocks formed by fractured or water-bound material ejected by volcanic activity, tuff drains well
Where is Tuffeau soil found? What are its characteristics?
Loire (particularly Touraine)
Buff-colored, sandstone-rich, otherwise chalky limestone as found in the Loire, particularly Touraine, and used in the construction of many of its châteaux
Where is Willakenzie soil found? What are its characteristics?
Willamette Valley
Silty, clay-loam colluvium, this is one of the two primary soil types found in Oregon’s Willamette Valley
Acid Soil
Any soil that has a pH of less than 7 (neutral).
Typically acidic soils that are acidic due to their parent rock include brown or reddish-brown, sandy loams or sands, volcanic soils, and any igneous or silicate-rich soil
How do neutral soils become acidic?
Too much humus or acid rain
Chemical makeup of acid soils
Low in calcium and magnesium with negligible amounts of soluble salts and reduced phosphorous availability
Aeolian Soil
Sediments deposited by wind
Alkaline Soil
Any soil that has a pH of more than 7 (neutral).
Typically alkaline soils include chalk and any calcareous soils
Alluvial Deposits
Alluvium (n)
Material that has been transported by river and deposited
Most alluvial soils contain silt, sand, and gravel and are highly fertile
Aqueous Rocks
One of the three basic rock forms. Also called sedimentary or stratified.
Arenaceous Rocks
Formed by the deposits of coarse-grained particles, usually siliceous, and often decomposed from older rocks (eg. sandstone)
Argillaceous Soils
This term covers a. Ground of sedimentary soils, commonly clays, shales, mudstones, siltstones, and marls
Basalt material
This accounts for as much as 90% of all lava-based volcanic rocks.
It contains various minerals, is rich in lime and soda, but not quartz, the most abundant of all minerals, and is poor in potash
Bastard Soil
A borderlais name for medium-heavy sandy-clay or variable fertility
Calcareous Clay
An argillaceous soil with carbonate of lime content that neutralizes the clay’s intrinsic acidity. It’s low temperature also delays ripening, so wines produced on this type of soil tend to be more acidic
Calcareous Soil
This label is for any soil, or mixture of soils, with an accumulation of calcium and magnesium carbonate.
Essentially alkaline, it promotes the production of acidity in grapes, although the pH of each soil will vary according to its level of “active” lime.
Calcareous soils are cool, with good water retention.
With the exception of calcareous clays, they allow the vine’s root system to penetrate deeply and provide excellent drainage
Carbonaceous Soil
Soil that is derived from rotting vegetation under anaerobic conditions.
The most common carbonaceous soils are peat, lignite, coal, and anthracite.
Chalk
A type of limestone, chalk is a soft, cool, porous, brilliant-white, sedimentary, alkaline rock that encourages grapes with a relatively high acidity level.
It also allows the vine’s routes to penetrate and provides excellent drainage, while at the same time retaining sufficient moisture for nourishment.
Clayey-loam
A very fertile version of loam, but heavy to work under wet conditions, with a tendency to become water-logged
Coal
Rarely seen as a vineyard soil, except for Chardonnay vines grown on one of the slag heaps at Hallicourt, near Béthune, in Pas-de-Calais
Colluvial deposits
Colluvium (n)
Weathered material transported by gravity or hill-wash
Synonymous with Scree
Crystalline
May either be igneous (eg Granite) or metamorphic
Dolomite (soil term)
Calcium-magnesium carbonate rock
Many limestones contain dolomite
Feldspar (or Felspar)
One of the most common minerals, feldspar is a white- or rose-colored silicate of either potassium-aluminum or sodium-calcium-aluminum and is present in a number of rocks, including granite and balsalt
Ferruginous clay
Iron-rich clay
Flint (soil)
A siliceous stone that stores and reflect heat and is associated with a certain “gun-flint” smell that sometimes occurs in wines
Glacial moraine
Gritty scree that has been deposited by glacial action
Gneiss
Course-grained form of granite
Granite (soil term)
Hard, mineral-rich rock that warms quickly and retains its heat.
Granite contains 40 to 60 percent potassium feldspar, plus mica or hornblende, and various other minerals
It has a high pH that reduces wine acidity.
Why is Granite the best soil for Gamay?
It has a high pH that reduces wine acidity. (Gamay being an acidic grape)
Gypsum (soil)
Highly absorbent, hydrated calcium-sulphate that was formed during the evaporation of sea-water
Gypsiferous marl
A marly soil permeated with Keuper or Muschelkalk, gypsum fragments, which improve the soil’s heat-retention and water-circulation properties
Hard-pan (soil)
A dense layer of clay that forms if the subsoil is more clayey than the topsoil at certain depths.
Hard-pans are impermeable to both water and roots, so they are not desirable too close to the surface but may provide an easily reachable water-table if located deep down.
Hornblende (soil)
A silicate of iron, aluminum, calcium, and magnesium, it constitutes the main mineral found in basalt and is a major component of granite and gneiss
Humus (soil)
Organic material that contains bacteria and other micro-organisms that are capable of converting complex chemicals into simple plant foods.
Humus makes soil fertile, without it, soil is nothing more than finely ground rock
Igneous rock
One of the three basic rock forms, igneous rocks are formed from molten or partially molten material. Most igneous rocks are crystalline
Keuper (soil)
Term often used when discussing wines in Alsace, Keuper is a stratigraphic name for the Upper Triassic period and can mean marl or limestone
Lacustrine limestone
Freshwater limestone that forms at the bottom of lakes.
Lacustrine-limestone soils have been found on Pelee Island and the Niagara district of Ontario, Yakima Valley in Washington, and Quincy in the Loire Valley
Limestone (soil)
Any sedimentary rock consisting essentially of carbonates.
With the exception of chalk, few limestones are white; instead grey- and buff-colored are probably the most common hues found limestones in wine areas.
The hardness and water retention of this rock vary, but being alkaline limestone generally encourages the production of grapes with a relatively high acidity level.
Loam (soil)
A warm, soft crumbly soil with roughly equal proportions of clay, sand, and silt.
It is perfect for large-cropping mediocre-quality wines but too fertile for fine wines
Loess (soil)
An accumulation of wind-born, mainly silty material, that is sometimes calcareous but usually weathered and decalcified.
Loess warms up relatively quickly and also has good water retention properties
Marl (soil)
A cold, calcareous clay-like soil (usually 50% clay content) that delays ripening and adds acidity to wine
Marlstone
Clayey limestone that has a similar effect to marl
Metamorphic rock (soil)
One of the three basic categories of rock, this type is caused by great heat or pressure, often both
Mica (Soil)
Generic name encompassing various silicate minerals, usually in a fine, decomposed-rock format
Millstone (soil)
Siliceous, iron-rich sedimentary rock
Mudstone (soil)
Sedimentary soil similar to clay but without its plastic characteristics
Muschelkalk (soil)
Often used when discussing wines in Alsace, Muschelkalk is a stratigraphic name for the Middle Triassic period, and can mean anything from sandstone to marl, dolomite, and shingle
Oolite (soil)
Type of limestone
Oolith (soil)
Term used for small, round calcareous pebbles that have grown through fusion of very tiny particle
Palus (soil)
Borderlais name for a very fertile soil of modern alluvial origin that produces medium-quality, well-colored, robust wines
Particle size (Soil)
The size of a rock determines its descriptive name.
No handfuls of soil will contain particles of a uniform size, unless it has been commercially graded, of course, so all descriptions can only be guesstimates
Perlite (soil)
Fine, powdery, light, and lustrous substance of volcanic origin with similar properties to diatomaceous earth
Perruches (soil)
Very stony, flinty clays combined with silica, perruches soils warm up quickly and are said to be why Sauvignon Blanc grapes grown on them have a flinty taste
Precipitates salts (soil)
Sedimentary deposit
Water charged with acid or alkaline material, under pressure of great depth, dissolves various mineral substances from rocks on the sea-bed, which are then held in solution.
When the water flows to a place of no great depth or is drained away or evaporates, the pressure is reduced, the minerals are no longer held in solution and precipitate in deposits that may be just a few centimeters or several thousand meters deep
Five groups of Precipitates salts
Oxides
Carbonates
Sulphate
Phosphates
Chlorides
Prism-like soil
Referring to the soil structure, “prism-like” indicates a columnar or vertical arrangement of soil particles
Pudding stones (soil)
Term used for a large, heat-retaining conglomerate of pebbles
Quartz (soil)
Most common and abundant mineral, quartz is a crystalline form of silica.
It is found in various sizes and in almost all soils, although sand and coarse silt contain the largest amount.
Quartz has a high pH which reduces wine acidity, but quartz that is pebble-sized or larger, stores and reflects heat, which increases alcohol potential
Rock (soil)
Rock may be loosely described as a mass of mineral matter.
There are three basic types of rock: igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary (or aqueous or stratified)
Sand (soil)
Tiny particles of weathered rocks and minerals that retain little water but constitute a warm, airy soil that drains well and is supposedly phylloxera-free
Sandstone (soil)
Sedimentary rock composed of sand-sized particles that have either been formed by pressure or bound by various iron minerals
Sandy-loam (soil)
Warm, well-drained, sand-dominated loam that is easy to work and suitable for early-cropping grape varieties
Schist (soil)
Heat-retaining, coarse-grain, laminated, crystalline rock that is rich in potassium and magnesium but poor in nitrogen and organic substances
Sedimentary Rock (soil)
One of the three basic rock forms, it includes arenaceous (eg. Sandstone), argillaceous (eg. Clay), calcareous (eg. Limestone), carbonaceous (eg. Peat, lignite, or coal), and siliceous (eg. Quartz) and the 5 Groups of precipitated salts.
Sedimentary rock is also called aqueous or stratified
Shale (soil)
Heat-retaining, fine-grain, laminated, moderately fertile sedimentary rock. Shale can turn into slate under pressure
Shingle (Soil)
Pebble- or gravel-sized particle rounded by water-action
Siliceous Soil
Generic term for acid rock of a crystalline nature.
It may be organic (such as flint) or inorganic (quartz) and have good heat retention, but no water retention unless found in a finely ground form in silt, clay, and other sedimentary soils.
Half of the Bordeaux region is covered with siliceous soils
Silt (soil)
Very fine deposit, with good water retention.
Silt is more fertile than sand but is cold and offers poor drainage
Slate (soil)
Hard, often dark grey (but can be any color between brown and bluish grey), fine-grain, plate-like rock formed under pressure from clay, siltstone, shale, and other sediments. It warms up quickly, retains its heat well, and is responsible for many fine wines, most notably from the Mosel
Slaty-schist (soil)
Sort of half-formed slate created under lower temperature and pressure than fully formed slate
Spiroidal soil
Referring to the soil structure, “spiroidal” indicates a granular or crumb-like composition of soil particles
Stone (soil)
This word should be used with rock types, such as limestone and sandstone, but is often used synonymously with pebble
Stratified Rock
One of the three basic rock forms, also called sedimentary or aqueous
Terra Rossa (soil)
Red, clay-like sometimes flinty sedimentary soil that is deposited after carbonate has been leached out of limestone.
It is often known as “red earth”
Volcanic soils
Derived from two sources, volcanic soils are lava-based (the products of volcanic flow) and vent-based (material blown into the atmosphere). Some 90 percent of lava-based rocks and soils are comprised of basalt, while others include andesite, pitch stone rhyolite, and tracheae.
Vent-based matter has either been ejected as molten globules, cooled in the air, and dropped to earth as solid particles (pumice), or as solid material and fractured through the explosive force with which it was flung (tuff).