Practical Handbook of Grapevine Fertilization, Must and Wine Quality (English Edition) by André Crespy

In ancient times, winemakers spoke of their property in terms of the number of vines rather than hectares or acres. My grandfather tended to 14,000 vines. Later, my father increased this total to 30,000 vines through purchases and exchanges.

Why did they count in this way? Because winter pruning was the hardest and longest task of the year for the winemaker. Great importance was attached to proper pruning, and the appearance of the vine was often valued disproportionately. Pruners were often judged harshly on their technique. How many times have I heard: "this guy prunes well. That one prunes like a pig!"

With the development of new vineyards, the adoption of new varieties, and the installation of complex trellising systems, winemakers had to relearn pruning, especially since time is now precious and the prohibition of certain winter treatments (sodium arsenite and DNOC) leaves little room for aesthetic concerns. This book is intended as a practical guide, and it does not contain lengthy discussions of theoretical developments in the field of pruning. Instead, it explains how to prune well, whether it is canes, spurs, or arms, without leaving large pruning wounds.

With the help of numerous drawings and photos, the book illustrates the different pruning systems: goblet pruning, cordon de Royat pruning, and various Guyot pruning systems (simple, double, etc.). The book is intended to be accessible to all, beginners as well as professionals wishing to learn more about pruning.

Finally, a chapter is devoted to vine diseases, how to recognize them, and the protection of pruning wounds.

Happy pruning to all!

Information:

• EAN13: 9782905428363
• ISBN: 978-2-905428-36-3
• Publisher: Oenoplurimédia
• Publication date: 10/2008
• Collection: Avenir Oenologie
• Number of pages: 135
• Dimensions: 24 x 16 cm
• Weight: 320 g
• Language: English