January 06, 2009
November 2007
Update
Harvest is finally over, I was very pleased with the quantity and quality of this years crops. This was the year that one had to be patient and not harvest too early. This meant that a lot of the red varieties had to endure a few storms. In some years this could have been a disaster, but I feel that due to good management a lot of varieties can survive years like these.
Everyone always asks what does a farmer do in the winter: hibernate? Actually November is one of the most important months of the year. To start off with it is the time that at last you can sit back for a moment and think about the good and the not so good moments of the past year. During this reflection you are able to make a list of what can be done to enhance the following year.
Being prepared is essential. With every year come new challenges, so thanks to the month of November for giving us the time to be prepared for the next season.
Words of Wisdom
I get asked a lot the question “what makes a great vineyard.” Below are my suggestions that one should entertain before developing a vineyard.
1. Variety: Pick a variety that best suits the appellation that your potential vineyard is in, there are exceptions to different cultural practices that will allow one to deviant from the status Quo. A lot of potential vineyard owners usually try to pick a variety that they enjoy. This is not a good idea; every variety has different heat units that are needed to ripen its fruit, while others can’t withstand too many heat units.
2. Soil Samples: Probably the best money that you will ever spend on your vineyard. As many of you know there are a lot of different soil types. Depending on your soil type or types you will need a rootstock that is compatible. PH is also an important factor; the best time to adjust the PH is before you rip your new vineyard.
3. Layout: This is the part that needs some professional advice. There are a lot of factors. Depending on the site, soil, variety, and obstacles. These factors need to be addressed to decide spacing, row direction and trellising.
Quote
Agriculture is a very important part of life, one must eat to survive.
David Cook CEO
