Old Vines Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the general industry consensus on the age at which vines are considered ‘old’?
Vines over 30 years old are generally considered ‘old,’ though no universal legal definition exists.
What is the role of South Africa’s Old Vine Project (OVP)?
It certifies ‘Heritage Vineyards’ over 35 years old and promotes their preservation and quality potential.
Why are old vines often more resilient to drought and climatic stress?
They have deeper, well-established root systems that access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers.
How does the structure of old vines contribute to fruit quality?
Older vines have thicker trunks and more wood, allowing for better carbohydrate storage, which supports balanced fruit development.
Why are low yields from old vines often associated with higher quality?
Smaller yields result in greater concentration of aromas, flavours, and phenolics in the grapes.
Give an example of a producer using old vines to make concentrated wines.
Bodega San Alejandro in Calatayud makes Grenache wines from 80-year-old vines yielding as little as 15–20 hl/ha.
In which region are some old vines ungrafted, and why?
In Toro, Spain, where sandy soils reduce the risk of phylloxera, some vines remain ungrafted and are said to produce more terroir-expressive wines.
What is VIGNO and why is it relevant to old vines?
VIGNO is a grower association in Chile promoting old-vine, dry-farmed Carignan; member wines are considered premium and expressive of place.
What is a major economic disadvantage of old vines?
They are low yielding and require more manual labour, making them expensive to manage and often unprofitable.
Why do old vines typically require more manual labour?
Many are bush-trained and cannot be mechanized, requiring skilled hand-pruning and harvesting.
What disease risks increase with vine age?
Old vines are more susceptible to trunk diseases like Esca and Eutypa dieback due to extensive mature wood.
Give an example of a producer choosing to replant old vines.
Clotilde Davenne in Saint-Bris replanted old Sauvignon Blanc vines due to unreliable yields.
What is the issue with the term ‘Old Vine’ on wine labels?
It is not legally defined, so its use varies widely and can be misleading or dilute the value of the term.
How does inconsistent labeling of ‘Old Vines’ affect consumer trust?
Without regulation, consumers may be misled, reducing the perceived value and clarity of the term.
Summarize the overall value of old vines in wine production.
Old vines can enhance wine quality and regional identity, but they require careful management and carry high costs and risks.
