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VINT A GE 2010 being directed by processors to reduce crop levels). Tools/Techniques: The use of GPS and precision viticulture techniques continues to expand. VineAlert, brocku.ca/ccovi, posted to assist in vine protection. Varieties: For 2010, a plateau pricing strategy for high-volume cultivars was agreed upon by growers and processors to ensure most of the crop was purchased. Kevin W. Ker, Ph.D. Research associate/consultant, CCOVI Brock University/ KCMS Applied Research and Consulting The 2010 crop was slightly lower than average, but a warm, sunny summer cre- ated a crop of decent quality. Because of an early veraison date and harvest period, winemakers were able to monitor the vineyards throughout the ripening period and the grapes were picked when qual- ity was optimal. There was no rush to harvest. PENNSYLVANIA Weather: Warm days with sunny skies were the norm for the 2010 growing sea- son. Rapid growing degree day accumula- tion moved bloom, veraison and harvest ahead by 10 days to two weeks. Weather was cooperative. Pests/Diseases: Warm weather created a late-season berry moth problem. Disease pressure was average to below average and manageable. Moths caused some late- season rot. Supply/Demand: Grape prices for wine va- rieties remained level. Prices for process- ing grapes has risen slightly. Logistics: Some tank space issues due to large crop in 2009. John F. Griggs Manager, Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center, Penn State VIRGINIA Our growing season started earlier and the weather was warmer and drier than the norm, which led most vineyards to harvest earlier, and some reported lower yields than previous years in Virginia. Most vintners are excited about another high-quality vintage like 2007, which was a wonderful year for Virginia wines. Weather: We had hot weather and very little rainfall. Early warm temperatures led to bud break about two weeks earlier than normal, which put many vineyards in dangerous positions with regard to spring frosts. Pests/Diseases: A new insect to our area, the brown marmorated stink bug, was noticed in vineyards around harvest. This insect is being monitored closely. Supply/Demand: Two factors lowered yields: Early bud break exposed vineyards to frost damage, and the dry conditions put some vineyards into a deficit water status. Tools/Techniques: Not all vineyards are in- stalled with irrigation in Virginia. Grow- ers with irrigation did have an opportu- nity to use their systems this season. Logistics: Fermentation space was an issue as some varieties reached maturity at once. Varieties: The dry weather and the long season allowed varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, which can be difficult to ripen in Virginia, to reach optimum maturity. Tremain Hatch Viticulture extension associate, Virginia Tech E X C LUS I V E WINE INSURANCE PACKAGE Compare: • Value • Expertise • Service 10% discount for Wine America members & enhanced coverages for wineries & vineyards Three decades committed to serving the insurance needs of the wine industry One on one relationship with those helping to protect your financial interests. FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE: (800) 524-4442 www.wineamerica.org/membership/insurance.htm Underwritten by: Markel Insurance Company QSEE US AT UNIFIED, BOOTH #834 Wines & Vines JAnUARY 2011 105 new