Terpene levels in grapes are influenced by various factors, including the trellising system used in the vineyard. Different trellising systems can impact the microclimate around the grape clusters, affecting terpene development and concentration. Let’s explore how terpene levels are influenced by the use of different trellising systems in the vineyard.
Impact of Trellising Systems on Terpene Levels
The trellising system used in a vineyard can have a significant impact on the microclimate around the grape clusters. This, in turn, can influence the development and concentration of terpenes in the grapes. Some trellising systems that are commonly used in vineyards include:
- Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
- Scott Henry
- Pergola
- Geneva Double Curtain (GDC)
Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
VSP is a trellising system where the shoots of the grapevine are trained to grow vertically, with the grape clusters positioned in a downward orientation. This trellising system allows for better sunlight exposure and air circulation around the grape clusters, which can positively impact terpene development. The increased sunlight exposure can enhance photosynthesis in the grapevine, leading to higher sugar accumulation and potentially increased terpene production.
Scott Henry
The Scott Henry trellising system is a split canopy system that involves dividing the canopy into two layers – an upper canopy and a lower canopy. This system can provide more shade to the grape clusters compared to VSP, which may result in lower sunlight exposure. As a result, terpene development in grapes grown under the Scott Henry trellising system may be different compared to grapes grown under VSP. The shaded environment can impact the synthesis of terpenes in the grapes.
Pergola
The pergola trellising system is characterized by a canopy that is elevated above the ground, providing a shaded environment for the grape clusters. The shade provided by the pergola system can protect the grape clusters from excessive sunlight exposure, which may result in slower ripening of the grapes. This slower ripening process can influence terpene development in the grapes, potentially leading to different terpene profiles compared to grapes grown under other trellising systems.
Geneva Double Curtain (GDC)
The Geneva Double Curtain trellising system involves two layers of foliage that are trained horizontally. This system can create a more open canopy compared to VSP, allowing for better air circulation around the grape clusters. The improved air circulation can help prevent issues such as mold and mildew, which can negatively impact terpene development. Additionally, the open canopy of the GDC system can provide good sunlight exposure to the grape clusters, potentially enhancing terpene production.
Other Factors Influencing Terpene Levels
While the trellising system used in the vineyard can influence terpene levels in grapes, it is important to note that other factors also play a role in terpene development. Some additional factors that can influence terpene levels in grapes include:
- Climate conditions
- Soil type
- Grape variety
- Viticultural practices
These factors can interact with the trellising system to collectively influence terpene levels in grapes. For example, a grape variety that is known for producing high levels of terpenes may still exhibit those characteristics even when grown under different trellising systems.