The Art of Pruning

Pruning grapevines, a seemingly simple task, hides within it an ancient wisdom and skill passed down through generations. It is a fundamental intervention for the life of the plant and, consequently, for the quality of the fruit that will be produced: grapes. But why prune grapevines, and what are the secrets behind this age-old practice?

Pruning is a bit like living sculpture. The vintner, with a precise and confident gesture, shapes the plant, defining its form and regulating its growth. The goal is twofold: on the one hand, to contain the vegetative vigor of the plant, concentrating its energy on the grape clusters; on the other, to promote aeration of the canopy, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and parasites.

Why prune?

Balance between production and quality: Correct pruning allows for the production of high-quality grapes, avoiding excessive yields that would dilute the aromas and flavors.

Longevity of the plant: Pruning helps to keep the plant healthy and vigorous, extending its life cycle.

Facilitation of cultivation operations: A well-pruned plant is easier to manage and treat.

When to prune? The best time to prune grapevines varies depending on the climate and variety. Generally, pruning is done during the plant's dormant period, between late winter and early spring.

The secrets of good pruning A good vintner knows that pruning is an art that requires experience and sensitivity. Every cut is important and can influence the quality of the grapes and, consequently, the wine. Among the secrets of good pruning, we recall:

The choice of wood: Only the previous year's shoots are pruned, selecting the most vigorous and healthy ones.

The number of buds: The number of buds to leave depends on the variety, soil fertility, and climatic conditions.

Training system: There are different training systems for grapevines, each with its own characteristics and suitable for specific pedoclimatic contexts.

The next time you taste a glass of wine, remember that behind every sip there is meticulous and passionate work. Pruning is just one of the many steps that transform a simple grape into an unforgettable sensory experience.

Madonna del latte is pleased to share with you the secrets of its production, the result of a passion handed down from generation to generation