For twenty-one years the UC Hopland Research & Extension Center has maintained a Cabernet Sauvignon research vineyard. Although small in size (2.0 acres), the design included 6 replicated blocks of four treatments each, with each treatment irrigated and metered independently. Originally, the elaborate irrigation system and planted vines were to carry out a research project looking at the modification of wine characteristics through irrigation management. Work by R.J. Smith, UCCE Sonoma County Viticulturalist, and T.L. Prichard, Water Management Specialist, Dept. of LAWR at UC Davis, showed that 60% of full potential water use was a "safe" management option. Malate and titratable acidity, yield, berry weight, berries per vine, cluster numbers, and soil profile moisture content were all included in the data that was analyzed. Subsequently the vineyard provided a research platform for other projects such as: 1) Impact of grape vine stress on root and scion health - interaction of vines, Phylloxera, Tetranychus and Fusarium, 2) Effects of 1-MCP (1-methyl cyclopropene affects the ripening process) on wine grape development, and the initial stages of 3) A comparison of organic, biodynamic, and conventional farming methods. The vineyard has fulfilled its duty, and is now in the process of being removed. Photo by Steven Poor.
