Wines & Vines

January 2014 Unified Symposium Issue

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VINTAGE 2013 availability continues to be a concern. Colorado The main features that determined Colorado's harvest were extreme cold temperature events that caused significant bud and trunk damage in late December 2012 and mid-January 2013. Two lateApril freezes caused more damage, mainly to early breaking varieties. Statewide crop losses are estimated at 50% or more. Although the grape crop was small, quality was good. Weather: Temperatures were average, but the main growing regions had unusually high rainfall. Occasional rains with cooler temperatures slowed down harvest. Pests/diseases: The wetter conditions near harvest caused some bunch rot problems in late-maturing varieties, a rare occurrence in Western Colorado's semi-arid climate. Supply/demand: Winery demand far exceeded grape production. As a result, grape prices continue to rise. Logistics: Even with a smaller crop, labor Varieties: Merlot, the most-planted variety, was one of the most damaged varieties, whereas Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling had less damage. Horst Caspari Professor and state viticulturist, Colorado State University Indiana Other regional designations: Ohio River Valley AVA, Indiana Uplands AVA Quality was excellent this year. The cool conditions of early summer were perfect for early and mid-season aromatic whites such as Traminette, Indiana's signature grape. Warmer temperatures in late August and September were ideal for fully ripening late-season reds. Dry conditions through late summer and fall greatly reduced fruit rot problems. Weather: 2013 was a good growing season. We had adequate rainfall early in the year, then dry and cool conditions during early summer, with warmer temperatures Demand and production are both on the rise IPM for Grapes: Your Pest Management Solution Davis' Integrated Pest Management for Grapes software links your weather data to actual pest risk, helping you to prevent crop damage before it starts. Used together with our Vantage Pro2™ Weather Station, a Wireless Leaf & Moisture/Temperature Station and Weatherlink® software, Davis Instruments offers you a complete solution for crop management. For more information, please call 800-678-3669. WAV1212 800-678-3669 www.davisnet.com 122 W in e s & V i ne s january 20 14 See us at Unified booth #219 See us at Unified booth #507

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