🌿 Irrigation

Irrigation means supplying water to vines in dry places. Grapevines can tolerate drought, but in a very hot, dry summer the vine suffers: leaves wilt, berries stay small and sugar builds poorly. That is why in hot lands, such as Australia, Chile and southern Europe, extra water is supplied.

Drip irrigation is the most common. Water flows through thin tubes right to the roots and is used sparingly. Growers try to keep the amount small. If the vine is watered too generously, it gives more leaves and crop but the wine tastes weaker. A good grower helps the vine in drought without spoiling it, so that roots go deep for water.

In many traditional European areas irrigation is limited or banned by appellation rules. Irrigation is tied to drought and to wine itself, because water affects grape quality. The choice of method depends on climate, soil and variety.