In this edition, we feature how sustainability connects to quality and a call for new student applications for the Master Vigneron Program…Sustainability & Quality in the Vineyard – Good Fruit, Good Business
Lake County, CA – Currently, the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) is studying the connections between sustainability and quality in the vineyard. There is still much to be determined. However, certain aspects of sustainability, that may be less obvious as part of the process, definitely affect quality. Sustainability is not just about using less herbicide or pesticide, for example. It’s also about more traditional aspects of good vineyard management.It may not be what you would expect to think of pruning methods and management to be part of the sustainability regime, but balanced vines are an integral part. Of course, pruning is a fundamental tool in facilitating balanced vines – controlling vigor, fruit development and canopy management. Understanding the best approaches to pruning throughout the year given your terroir and your varietal, is critical to success.
It also relates to the business-side of sustainability – getting good yields and good quality, obviously, relates to the profitability of your vineyard. Connected to this is establishing a reputation for professionalism and excellence that positively affects your bottom line. Participating in the process to become certified sustainable addresses these issues as part of the program and its assessments. It’s a comprehensive approach that has curb appeal, but is also practical in management approach and beneficial to your pocketbook. In this case, good pruning leads to good fruit, which is good business.
At the moment, CSWA and the Lake County Winegrape Commission are offering tremendous incentives to participate in becoming certified sustainable. To find out more and take advantage of these rebates and other resources, please contact Paul Zellman at paulz@lakecountywinegrape.org.
Master Vigneron Program Looking for 2013 Candidates
Lake County, CA – The highly successful Master Vigneron Program (MVP) is now recruiting participants for its second class. We have approximately 10 openings for the next group through a competitive application process. We are looking for vineyard workers, primarily those in leadership roles (though identification of qualified candidates who have demonstrated an increasing ability to lead and manage are also encouraged to apply), to apply for the program. Some experience is desirable, though long-time tenure is not a requirement.
We are looking for candidates who would benefit from the course and become more valuable employees through this unique curriculum. If you have an employee or know of someone who has demonstrated ability and shows promise for development in the industry and would like to nominate them, please contact LCWC Education Director, Paul Zellman.
The Master Vigneron Program exposes students to broader aspects of the wine industry including vineyard management, human resources, winemaking, industry trends and much more. The deadline to apply is November 1st.
