WINETECH Technical Yearbook 2021

OENOLOGY RESEARCH | JULY 2021

TRELLISING SYSTEMS ARE DRIVING the mech- anisms that alter canopy microclimates, consequently affecting yield and quality of grapes. VITICULTURE PRACTICES AFFECTING GRAPE AND WINE COMPOSITION In the vineyard, the bunch zone environ- ment is variable due to uneven light dis- tribution in the canopy. The vineyard row orientation and the architecture of the vine can determine the amount of light intercepted and distributed around the canopy. All this has a direct impact on photosynthetic capacity and vegetative and reproductive growth. Several ways of managing vine growth and optimising yield by increasing photosynthesis active reactions can be achieved by modification or manipulation of the canopy. The strategies used can either target a specific developmental stage, for example at berry set, véraison or harvest, or can be done on a long- term basis such as establishing a suitable permanent vine architecture or converting it only when necessary. However, both strategies come with drawbacks, so it is essential for the winegrower or winemaker to make the initial correct decisions regarding the type of techniques that can maximise yield while maintaining quality.

Trellis effects on wine composition (PART 1: BACKGROUND)

ASTRID BUICA, VALERIA PANZERI & HILARIA IIPINGE: South African Grape and Wine Research Institute, Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch KEYWORDS: Trellising systems, yield, grape quality.

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