Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Some differences are probably not of great importance in climatic regions that have
average summer temperatures, say 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 30°C), but they are important
where the macroclimate conditions are marginal for vineyards. In these areas, differences
in mesoclimates can be measured in distances from a few yards up to many miles.
In cooler areas, you can increase your chances of more sun by planting on a southern
slope. Likewise, in marginally cooler areas where chances of frost exist during the growing
season, exposure of the vineyard to a lake or bay will moderate the potential for early or
late frosts.
Cold winters are no deterrent if you wish to plant a vineyard. In Ontario's
Niagara region, grapevines overwinter with no ill effects. The region favors cool-
climate varieties like Pinot Noir and Riesling.
In hotter areas, if you are on a hill, where breezes can cool the high vineyard tem-
peratures within plants' preferred temperature range—not more than 95°F (35°C con-
stant)—your vines will do better. Grapes cannot thrive at altitudes above about 3000 feet,
however. The cooler temperatures and the swings between daytime and nighttime temper-
atures do not favor the development of good wine grapes.
WHAT VINEYARDS NEED
