Grape variety is a major factor for success in Indiana

July 01, 2009

Check out this paper just released from the Purdue Agricultural Extension by Bruce Bordelon. I consult with Bruce... and he actually responds to questions from home-boys like me. I appreciate the efforts of his team and want to echo their efforts to other growers in SE Indiana!

Selecting an appropriate grape variety is a major factor for successful production in Indiana and all parts of the Midwest. There are literally thousands of grape varieties available. Realistically, however, there are only a few dozen that are grown to any extent worldwide, and fewer than 20 make up the bulk of world production.

Consistent production of high quality grapes requires properly matching the variety to the climate of the vineyard site. This publication identifies these climactic factors, and then examines wine grape varieties and table grape varieties. Tables 1, 2, and 3 provide the varieties best adapted for Indiana, their relative cold hardiness and disease susceptibility, and their yield performance at two
test locations in the state.

Grape Varieties for Indiana

by Bruce Bordelon
Purdue Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
www.hort.purdue.edu
All photos by Bruce Bordelon and Steve Somermeyer

 

Tags: vineyard , grapes

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2007 Spring Wine Grape Workshop

March 30, 2007

A well-rounded, all-day workshop. We toured the facility, the vineyard, and watched Bruce Bordelon (Purdue University, Ag Dept, Small Fruit Specialist) prune several variety of vines. There was LOTS of wine tasting and trying it various glasses.

It happened at Ertle Cellars in Batesville, Indiana. This cellar and winery is a brand-new, state of the art facility. Energetic and determined winemaker, Brian Ahaus and and Gary Ertle, the seasonsed vineyard manager are running a very nice and clean operation with all areas well thought out. I plan to write up more here in the future, so check back.

Tags: jason , wine , vineyard , grapes

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Spring 2007 grapevines ordered

October 18, 2006

I finally located the Vidal Blanc vines that I have been wanting. I found a pretty reputable place in NY, called Double A Vinyards. They grow pretty much every varietal you can think of. It's important that you get quality, disease-free vines. Handling is important. The grape-growing/wine-making forum I belong to highly endorses this place with the bulk of its members ordering from here.

While I was at it, I couldn't resist the urge to snag a few Swenson White vines. These vines will come in the Spring of 2007. Many varieties are already sold out. Gotta get 'em early.

These new vines will be added to my first-year Mars, Concord and Niagra vines... truly making the backyard, my backyard vineyard :)

In addition to the grape vines, I have two Mont Morency cherry trees, one Bing cherry with an additional Bing being added in the spring (for cross-polination) and 1 or 2 North Star trees.

I have made my first batch of Blackberry wine from my brambles also in the back. The goal is to have the backyard supplying I'll the wine fodder I'll ever need within 5-6 years. Caio till next time.

Tags: vineyard , wine

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The Spring plantings are complete

April 25, 2006

Everyone heard me blathering about planting grapevines this spring. Well, the promise is delivered. I have three hybrids: Mars Seedless, Concord Seedless and Catawba. In addition, I planted two more Sweet Cherry trees (North Star and Bing) to add to the two Mont Morency Sour Cherry trees that will bear fruit this year.

What's more you may ask? I did establish the asparagus patch this year as well as strawberrys and a blueberry bush. I hope that in a year or three, I'll have a nice selection of wine, pie or canning fruit.

Tags: vineyard , garden

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