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3.2.1.a Preventing the development of Botrytis before the harvest

Overview

Harvesting follows the harvest order defined earlier according to the progression of the grapes' maturity (Determining harvest order), expected yields, the type of vinification desired and the available containers. From several days prior to harvesting until vatting, a wide range of practices are used to monitor and maintain the harvest's quality potential.

To maintain optimal health until the harvest, several practices and checks can be put in place. At this phenological stage, the most significant health risk relates to Botrytis cinerea contamination.

A few days prior to harvest, if weather conditions constitute a health risk for the vines, surveillance in the vineyard must be increased. Regular inspection of the plots allows the vines' status to be regularly updated. If contamination by the Botrytis fungus occurs early during the ripening period, it is possible to slow down its development.

To do so, treatment is possible to eliminate the foci within bunches and to avoid its spread and an impact on the grapes, must and wine. However, the foci are often found in the heart of the bunch, which is not without risks for the rest of the bunch. Cutting with pruning shears can cause the crushing of peripheral berries, it is also possible to contaminate healthy berries with the juice of burst botrytised berries.

Cleaning the bunches is time consuming and must be done carefully, so it may be necessary to train operators regarding the risks of damaging healthy berries when cutting damaged berries. This technique can save a few days if weather conditions are favourable. It should only be used when it is absolutely necessary to wait before harvesting because it is very expensive and its effect is limited.

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