Low rainfall doesn't just affect the water supply for our vines. Rising temperatures also influence which grape varieties we plant, when we harvest, and how we manage our vineyards. These changes present challenges, but they also open up new opportunities.
The Right Grape Variety
Not every grape variety copes equally well with the heat. Pinot Noir, in particular, is sensitive to high temperatures. Among other things, this affects the development of aromas. What may be a challenge for one grape variety, however, can be an opportunity for another.
This was exactly what happened a few years ago with a vineyard plot in Varen. The steep, dry, south-facing slope made cultivation difficult. The conditions were becoming increasingly challenging for Pinot Noir.
Instead of giving up on cultivating the plot, we adapted it to its specific conditions. We addressed the steep slope by building terraces, the dry conditions with drip irrigation, and, to cope with the heat, we chose the Pinotage grape variety.
This grape variety originates from South Africa and requires plenty of warmth and sunshine to fully develop its fruity aromas. It has difficulty ripening in cooler climates. For this reason, we have been growing Pinotage since 2012 on our south-facing plot in Varen, where it now produces a fruity and distinctive wine.
Heat During the Harvest
During the harvest, the heat brings its own set of challenges. If the grapes are harvested when they’re too warm, the burst berries can start fermenting right in the crates. That’s why we try to get them into the cellar as cool as possible. For our vineyard team, that also means getting up early ;-)
Warm nights also play a role. Sugar levels rise rapidly, while acidity decreases. At the same time, aromas and tannins take time to develop. Given this rapid progression, the optimal harvest window can be correspondingly short. Sometimes, there are only a few days’ difference between harvesting too early and too late.
Less Pesticide Use
However, the drought also has a positive side. The low risk of disease has allowed us to significantly reduce our use of organic pesticides.
This year, we were even able to get by without any pesticides at all on a test plot planted with Cabernet Franc. However, that is the exception in most years.
This makes it all the more important to apply only as much as is necessary. On steep and hard-to-reach plots, a drone helps us do this. It flies along predefined routes and applies the crop protection product with precision.
Looking Ahead
Global warming is changing conditions in the vineyard. For us, this means keeping an open mind and actively embracing technical innovations when they help us adapt.
It is just as important to us to minimize our own contribution to global warming as much as possible. We are consistently pursuing this path. Today, solar power, electric cars, battery storage, and the electrification of our machinery all work together seamlessly.
Our goal is to achieve the most self-sufficient energy supply possible. We have been generating electricity with our own solar power systems since 2007. Any excess energy is temporarily stored in battery storage systems and used later.
We will continue to take a close look at things, keep learning, and adapt our work where it makes sense to do so.
In a nutshell
Here you can find a brief overview of how we manage our vineyards.
How does Cave du Rhodan manage its vineyards?
Our vineyards in Salgesch are cultivated organically. We follow biodynamic principles, avoid the use of mineral fertilizers, and employ cover cropping, among other practices.
Why does Cave du Rhodan grow Pinotage?
Pinotage thrives in high temperatures and requires plenty of heat and sun for its fruit aromas to develop. This makes the grape variety particularly well-suited to warm, south-facing plots.
Are grapes harvested earlier in hot years?
This may be the case depending on the variety and vineyard block. However, sugar content alone is not the deciding factor. Acidity, aromas, skins, seeds, and tannins must also be taken into account.
