Vine density Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is vine density in viticulture?
Vine density refers to the number of vines planted per hectare, influenced by spacing between vines and rows.
What is the typical range of vine density?
It can range from a few hundred to over 10,000 vines per hectare.
What factors influence vine density decisions?
Wine style, climate, soil type, rootstock, grape variety, trellising system, and economic considerations.
How is vine density believed to impact wine quality?
High density can increase competition, reduce yields, and improve skin-to-juice ratio, potentially enhancing quality.
What does research say about high-density planting and quality?
Results are mixed; some sites benefit, while others suffer due to water stress or no observable quality improvement.
How do environmental factors like soil and water availability impact vine density?
Soil texture affects water and nutrient retention, influencing vigour; denser plantings may help or harm depending on site conditions.
How does grape variety and rootstock influence vine density?
Varieties and rootstocks vary in vigour; more vigorous ones may need more space, impacting density decisions.
What economic factors impact decisions on vine density?
Mechanisation requirements, labour costs, land value, and long-term vineyard management expenses.
What are the challenges of high-density planting?
Higher setup and management costs, more difficult mechanisation, and increased labour demand.
Name one region where vine density is adjusted to influence wine style.
Marlborough, New Zealand – where density affects Sauvignon Blanc’s flavour profile.
