Stabilising yields of Pinot Noir grape vines in Tasmania

Abstract

Experiments aimed at identifying influences on yield variability in Pinot Noir in the cool climate wine area of Tasmania are described. Bud number retained at dormant pruning influenced bunch number and bunch size in the form of berry number per bunch, with results varying markedly between seasons. Weather during spring in the current season was identified as a major influence on yield. Aspects of pollination were also studied and results raised some concerns about use of fungicides during anthesis. Berry colour development was inversely related to bunch size. Results are discussed in terms of the interaction between yield and quality.
An investigation of management strategies designed to reduce bunch size and adjust yields according to bunch number after anthesis is recommended.

Summary

Bud number retained at dormant pruning influenced bunch number and bunch size in the form of berry numbers per bunch. Results varied over seasons with spring temperature dependency. Bunch size seems more crucial than yield for fruit quality.