Early Vine Development

In the weeks between budbreak and flowering the vine is rapidly growing shoots. Strong shoot growth is critical to the success of the vine. Leaves are the factory that provide the energy needed to ripen the fruit, so it becomes essential for us to get the perfect balance of shoots and leaves on each vine.

Although we apply an organic compost under the vine in the fall, It is also during this stage of growth that we supplement the vines with nitrogen (if necessary).  This ensures that the vines will grow enough productive leaves to give us beautiful fruit in the fall.   Nitrogen is applied via the irrigation system to give the vines the exact amount they need. 

The vineyard staff focuses on shoot thinning during this time of year in effort to find the optimal balance of leaves and fruit. Too many shoots results in an inability of the vine to be able to fully ripen the fruit as well as inhibiting the clusters from receiving the necessary sun exposure.

The Process of Early Grape Development

During early grape development, grapes are still in an embryonic state.  The flower bud clusters become apparent within a few weeks of budbreak, and develop along with the shoots, growing and expanding as they prepare to flower.  At this point, the maximum crop yield is already set. 

Early in the grape development process, the clusters are susceptible to frosts.  As the weather warms, frost becomes less of an issue, and we begin to anticipate the next stage of the annual life cycle of the vine.  As the flower buds become fully formed, we begin to anticipate flowering, which usually occurs in late May or early June. .

To see photo's of our vineyard in this phase, click here or on the image above.