Vineyard Establishment

26 October, 2006

Whether you are looking at developing a vineyard of 100 ha or 1/2ha, if it is for investment purposes or a hobby, you need to look into the following before plunging headfirst into a vineyard.

Firstly: Market Research.

• Is there a market for the grapes or the wine you want to produce?
• Look at what the wine market is currently doing?
• Who is your target market?
• Are you wanting to produce grapes for your own wine production?
• What is the current demand in these markets, quantities and varieties.

Secondly: Site selection.

Site selection should never be underestimated when planning a vineyard.

The two major factors affecting site suitability include the soil and climate, commonly referred to as the terroir.

The physiochemical properties of soil will determine the feasibility of a particular site for planting. The site's temperature determines the length of the growing season, the ability to ripen a crop, the type of grape vines that will be planted and the style of wine that will be produced.

To determine suitability of the site you will need to take into account the following:

• Climate
• Slope/aspect
• Soil type
• Previous Land use
• Water availability and quality

Vineyard Establishment Check list

Once you have thoroughly researched the two sections above & are satisfied that the site is suitable for the production of wine then you can proceed to preparing the site for the vines.

1. Survey the site & map out differences in soil profile.
2. Find out what rootstocks and varieties/clones suit your site. You will have to check that these are readily available. TALK TO US!
3. Assess the incidence of pests and diseases in the area
4. Clear the site and level the land if necessary.
5. Rip the soil but only if it is required i.e. to break up a pan, and do so when it is dry.
6. Cultivate the soil to seedbed condition in preparation of planting.
7. Book your contract planter, either machine planter or contract hand planters.
8. Seek irrigation expertise from a reputable irrigation specialist.
9. Order Posts, trellising wire, vine guards and irrigation material.
10. Mark out the vineyard - most machine-planting contractors will mark out the vineyard with lasers.
11. Ensure that vine delivery will coincide with planting otherwise you will need to store your vines.
12. Plant vines; ensure the vines are being planted correctly.
13. Install posts, irrigation wire & lines
14. Install vine guards.
15. Follow up with good post planting care.