Category: Viticulture and Winemaking (D1)

DipWSET Theory: Why Vineyard Slopes & Aspect Matter

[Information based on DipWSET D1 material]

Steep hillside vineyards in the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region in Germany produce outstanding Riesling wines. Germany is reveling in a raft of young producers, people like A.J. Adam and Florian Lauer, as conversant with dry styles as they are with sweet. Photo: German Wine Institute
Steep hillside vineyards in the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region in Germany producing Riesling.  Photo: German Wine Institute

IF all other factors were equal, regions at lower latitudes (nearer the Equator, like Mendoza, South Africa, New South Wales) will receive more solar radiation per annum than regions at higher latitudes (nearer the Poles, like northern France and Germany).” But we know that “all other factors” are not equal are they? Where a vineyard is planted within its give region has more specific influence than just the mere latitude it happens to reside. To make this point, I’m going to be looking at the Northern Hemisphere—specifically cooler climate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. So travel with me, if you will, to your favorite cool climate wine region. (I like Alsace, but whatever you fancy.)

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DipWSET Theory: Flowering and Fruit Set

Yo. Don’t ask why yo. Just yo. Yo—I gotta study for my WSET Diploma (D1) exam. One thing that really helped me pass my Level 3 exam was writing posts that simulated questions I could expect to see on the exam. So, that’s what the next (several) posts will be. Interspersed with wine notes (probably). My first exam is in one month. On my birthday no less. So…help me study? Thanks.

Let’s start with grape development…

[Information based on DipWSET D1 material]

The calyptra is shed and pollen is transferred from the anthers to the stigma fertilizing the flower.
The calyptra is shed and pollen is transferred from the anthers to the stigma fertilizing the flower.

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