Have you ever wondered what’s inside, below and behind those picturesque vines? Those strategically placed wires and stakes are trellises, the unsung heroes in the vineyard.
Why do winegrowers trellis? Picture this: without support, vines could sprawl all over the place. Trellising helps keep them in line, literally.
Whether trained upwards, maximizing sunlight exposure, or in a ‘double curtain’ with two sets of sprawling arms, the goal is the same: to maximize sunlight exposure and airflow, keeping grapes happy and healthy.
But some vineyards opt to let their vines grow untrained. Some grape varieties, particularly those in warmer climates, thrive without the structure. It’s all about balance; in some cases, letting vines sprawl naturally can lead to more robust root systems and unique flavor profiles.
Trellising isn’t just about grapevine health—it’s also about flavor. By managing vine canopy and airflow, trellising ensures grapes ripen evenly, unlocking a symphony of flavors. For those untamed vines, it’s a different melody altogether. Without the guidance of a trellis, they grow with their own rhythm, expressing terroir in a raw, unfiltered manner.
So, next time you enjoy a robust Zin or crisp Sauvignon Blanc, maybe you’ll be able to guess whether a trellis system played a part.