Vineyard management effects on wine quality of pinot noir

Abstract

The primary objective of the current study was to research commercial vineyard management techniques, winter pruning, bunch thinning, leaf removal and shoot trimming, on cool climate Pinot Noir wine composition. The study utilised a small scale winery and used standard winemaking protocol to link viticultural management and fruit composition with wine chemistry. The main outcomes of the study were the over-riding influence of climate variability in Tasmania and the need for grape growers to adapt management practices within each season. In warmer years, high cost inputs may not be necessary to improve wine composition, however in more marginal years, practices such as bunch thinning and leaf removal may be beneficial.

Summary

The primary objective of the current study was to research commercial vineyard management techniques, winter pruning, bunch thinning, leaf removal and shoot trimming, on cool climate Pinot Noir wine composition.  The study utilised a small scale winery and used standard winemaking protocol to link viticultural management and fruit composition with wine chemistry.  The main outcomes of the study were the over-riding influence of climate variability in Tasmania and the need for grape growers to adapt management practices within each season.  In warmer years, high cost inputs may not be necessary to improve wine composition, however in more marginal years, practices such as bunch thinning and leaf removal may be beneficial.