Canada

Question 1

Describe the province of British Columbia.

Answer 1

Okanagan Valley is most important DVA (of 5)

In rain shadow between two mountain ranges
Low annual rainfall & semi-desert environment
Extremely long days due to latitude, extends photosynthesis window
Lakes moderate temperature and extend the season

Variety of international grapes + icewine (Riesling & Vidal)

Question 2

Describe the province of Ontario.

Answer 2

Niagara Peninsula is most important DVA (of 3)

South-west corner of Lake Ontario
Lake cools down slower and heats up faster than surrounding land = extended growing season into Autumn, budburst delayed
Lake also minimizes frost damage, air flows reduce fungus

Riesling: Fresh, fruity, off-dry
Also used for icewine
Vidal: Little character but makes good icewine (less acid and complexity than Riesling)

Question 3

Describe the climate and grape growing of Canada.

Answer 3

Harsh continental climate
Moderated by large bodies of water (lakes)
Average annual temps low, but average daytime temp in July and August high
Excellent conditions for icewine

Question 4

Describe Canada’s wine laws.

Answer 4

Ontario and British Columbia use VQA scheme
Vitners Quality Alliance

Provinces broken down into smaller DVAs
DVAs broken down into regional appellations & sub-appellations

VQA wine must be 100% grape from that province & 100% V. Vinifera or selected hybrid