Growing Italian grape varieties outside of their native Italy involves unique challenges and adaptations, especially in environments that differ significantly from their traditional growing regions. The experiences of adapting these cultivars to new soils and climates offer many necessary lessons in viticulture. Below are a few of the challenges you can face.
Challenges of Planting Nebbiolo
Nebbiolo demands careful site selection that avoids water retention. For example, if the soil is mostly clay, the site’s slope needs to make up for this so water can properly drain. While proper site selection is crucial for Nebbiolo, this grape can cope with weather variability, and produce light-colored wines with a significant focus on aromatics, texture, tannin quality, and finish. Vine management includes early adjustment of catch wires to support Nebbiolo’s unique growth pattern. Nebbiolo grape clusters have wings that are highly exposed to the sun due to their perpendicular nature to the stem. The grape’s high wax content helps maintain internal berry water retention and naturally repels water to help prevent berry splitting.
Challenges of Planting Pinot Grigio
For Pinot Grigio, the timing of harvest is critical. Picking generally occurs around 21 to 21.5 Brix to maintain a lighter style of wine, ideally with alcohol levels around 12.5 to 12.7%. Delaying harvest can lead to higher pH and lower acidity in the grapes, which might require further blending or adjustments to achieve the desired wine profile and prevent wine spoilage.
Challenges of Planting Sangiovese
Sangiovese grapes are susceptible to splitting from rain, and the vines are vulnerable to various viruses which can lead to grape loss and uneven ripening. Successful cultivation involves selecting proper planting sites that mitigate these risks, challenging the perception that Sangiovese is inherently difficult to grow.
Challenges of Planting Barbera
Cultivating the large-berried, thin-skinned Barbera variety involves managing the risk of berry splitting which can be difficult to mitigate during early-season rainfall. This variety also tends to produce secondary clusters that may lead to uneven ripening, however, careful pruning can manage this variability. Fortunately, Barbera’s naturally high acidity and low tannin levels allow it to still produce quality wines even when the growing season is not ideal.If you want to learn more about the challenges and successes of growing Italian cultivars outside of Italy with Luca Paschina, check out https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu050.
