1.4.1.c What is the plot's environment like?

What are the surrounding climate conditions?

What is the average annual percipitation?

Rainfall is the primary element to factor into the climate. Each grape variety has varying resistance/tolerance to drought, so it is a critical factor to take into account when choosing a grape variety. The most accurate results depend on how closely-located the meteorological data is to the plot.

What are the average recorded temperatures like ?

Collecting as much information as possible is essential to make the most informed decision regarding the grape variety. Records showing temperature and sunshine hours for the region or the area closest to the plot are essential. The underlying question to ask is "Will my grape variety ripen?" The climate partly determines the ripeness of the grapes. Each grape variety has a minimum number of degree days to reach maturity (Huglin's scale). Planting Method Choices

How windy is the plot ?

Certain grape varieties are sensitive to wind and risk many broken branches. Wind is a secondary important factor to take into account, but this element can be mitigated by vineyard management practices.

What is the topography of the plot ?

Is the plot on flat ground or a hill?

This information gives more detail pertaining to sun exposure and wind as well as the likely impact of rainfall on the plot. To properly understand a plot’s potential and also give the soil study more contextual relevance, a topographical study should be carried out.

What is the plot's sun exposure?

In the case of a hillside plot, the ripeness timeline will be different depending on its exposure. For example, on a Northern slope, sun exposure will be less intense than on a Southern slope. In this situation, an early-ripening varietal should be planted on more northerly-located plots.

How can plot shape alter weather effects with regards to frost or the water regime?

For example, the presence of a basin at the bottom of a slope can cause excess stagnant air to remain and increase sensitivity to late frosts. A variety with early budburst should therefore be avoided if possible.
A concave-shaped plot provides another example. The problem is identical to the above, but water will also accumulate in the center of the plot.

What is the plot's microenvironment?

The plot's microclimate and the risk of disease outbreaks is influenced by its proximity to factors such as a water source, a forest or a wall. Indeed, these elements could add more shade and/or humidity in the vicinity of the grape clusters. They could could also modify the wind. In cases such as these, the selection of so-called disease-resistant grape varieties is recommended or even very early-ripening varieties, as in some situations the exposure to sunshine may differ.

The environmental aspect must also be taken into account. The risks of potential pollution must be kept in mind, especially in the vicinity of a water source, homes or schools, etc. Oftentimes hedge installation may be a necessary consideration, and indeed, it is sometimes mandatory to limit phytosanitary product drift.
A hedge can lower the NTA of some products. Similarly, it can modify the winds experienced on the plot and transform it into a microclimate. This is an element to be carefully considered when planting, as are all factors of the Estate’s operations.