Choosing the right grapevine training system can have a significant impact on the characteristics of the wine produced. The training system dictates how the vine is pruned, trained, and ultimately shapes the vine’s growth and fruit production. This, in turn, affects the quality, flavor, aroma, and overall characteristics of the wine. Let’s delve deeper into how the choice of grapevine training system influences wine characteristics.
Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
Vertical Shoot Positioning is a popular training system where shoots are trained upward and positioned in a vertical manner. This system allows for good sun exposure and air circulation, which can result in wines with the following characteristics:
- Enhanced fruit quality
- Improved color intensity
- Balanced sugar and acid levels
Scott Henry
The Scott Henry training system involves dividing the canopy into two layers, with the upper layer receiving more sunlight. Wines produced from vines trained in the Scott Henry system may exhibit the following characteristics:
- Increased fruity flavors
- Softer tannins
- Less herbaceous notes
Single Guyot
Single Guyot training system is characterized by one long cane and one short spur. This system can influence wine characteristics in the following ways:
- Concentration of flavors
- Enhanced complexity
- Balanced yield and quality
Double Guyot
Double Guyot training system involves two canes, one on each side of the vine. Wines produced from vines trained in the Double Guyot system may exhibit the following characteristics:
- Improved structure
- Enhanced aging potential
- Consistent quality year after year
Goblet
The Goblet training system, also known as bush vines, is a traditional method where the vine is left to grow without any support. Wines produced from vines trained in the Goblet system may exhibit the following characteristics:
- Rich and concentrated flavors
- Higher tannin levels
- Full-bodied wines