🍷 Winkler index
A way to compare the warmth of different places by adding up the season's warm days.
The Winkler index is a way to compare the warmth of different places for viticulture. It was devised by scientists at the University of California, Davis, Albert Winkler and Maynard Amerine, in the mid-20th century. The idea is to add up the warmth of the growing season, from spring to autumn.
It is counted like this. Take the average temperature of each day. If it is above 10 degrees Celsius, the vine grows. The difference between the average temperature and 10 degrees is added up over all the days of the season. The result is a number called degree-days.
By this number places are divided into five regions, from I (coolest) to V (hottest). In cool regions light white wines and sparkling wines ripen; in hot ones, rich reds, dessert and fortified wines.
The index helps choose which grape to plant on a new site. It belongs to the discussion of vineyard climate. It is also used to study climate change, because vineyards are becoming warmer over time.
How it connects to Wine
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Winkler index?
A way to compare the warmth of places by adding up the warm days of the season.
Who devised the Winkler index?
Albert Winkler and Maynard Amerine of the University of California, Davis.
Why do growers need it?
To choose grapes suited to the climate of a site.