C35 - Canada (reviewed)

Question 1

What is the general climate in Canada?

Answer 1

Continental throughout

Although average annual temperatures are low, July and August have very hightemperature extremes moderated large lakes

Winter: Temperatures can drop far below zero for long periods long, freezing winters ideal for Icewine

Question 2

What are the main DVAs

Answer 2

• Ontario: Three, most important : Niagara Peninsula
• British Columbia - five, most important Okanagan Valley

Question 3

Discuss Niagara Peninsula climate

Answer 3

On the south-western corner of Lake Ontario

Lake Ontario cools down and heats up more slowly than the surrounding land,

• Delays budburst in spring helps to minimise frost damage
• Extends the growing season in Autumn which allows grapes to ripen fully
• Increases air flow helps to reduce fungal disease

Question 4

Discuss Niagara Peninsula white varieties

Answer 4

• Most successful variety: Riesling
  
  • Fresh, fruity, dry and off-dry whites
• Vidal: The finest Icewines
  
  • A hardy hybrid with little character as a dry wine but makes good Icewines (though without the acid structure or aromatic complexity of Riesling)
• Chardonnay: Good quality, Dry, Pure fruit and restrained oak

Question 5

What are the black varieties most commonly grown in Niagara Peninsula?

Answer 5

Pinot Noir

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Cabernet Franc

Question 6

Where in Canada is British Columbia?

Answer 6

The west coast

Question 7

Describe the climate of Okanagan Valley

Answer 7

• In the rain shadow of two mountain ranges which are on either side of the valley so very low annual average rainfall
• Semi-desert environment
• Due to latitude, day length is very long during the growing season and this prolongs the time in which photosynthesis can take place, aiding grape ripening
• Glacial lakes help to moderate temperature, extending the growing season - It enables successful ripening of grapes in the north, and black grapes in the south

Question 8

What are the most widely planted grapes in Okanagan Valley?

Answer 8

Merlot

Pinot Gris

Pinot Noir

Chardonnay

Question 9

Other than still, dry wines, what else is produced in Okanagan Valley?

Answer 9

Icewine from Riesling or Vidal

Question 10

What is the appellation system of Canada?

Answer 10

Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA)

• Used by Ontario and British Columbia
• VQAs are divided into Designated Viticultural Areas (DVAs)
• DVAs are divided into regional appellations, then sub-appellations
• Every VQA wine must be made 100% grapes that are grown in that province
• They must be made 100% from V. vinifera varieties or selected hybrid