Protecting the crop

The human impact on the flora and fauna of the County (and by extension the world) should not be taken lightly. Every effort should be made to maintain the balance between necessity and greed.

In the past few weeks I read that vineyards were in part responsible for the decline of the bird population in the County, due to their need to spray vines with chemicals throughout the growing season. Perhaps I misunderstood this comment, since not much more than 1200 acres of the County (less than .004% of its landmass) is under vine cultivation. And—given the cost of chemicals and the residual effect on grapes if they are sprayed close to harvest —vines are only treated with fungal and disease preventive chemicals when necessary. New machine technology targets the vines to prevent excess chemical usage. Redesigned vine rows create better air flow to minimize the need for spraying.

Now is a perfect time of year to see what steps the vineyards are taking to mitigate the frequency and quantity of chemicals used in grape cultivation. Ask permission prior to wandering off into the vineyards. Managers will be happy to share their unique perspective on their vineyard and their wine. You will learn a lot about the trials and tribulations of grape growing and wine making. It is also a perfect time to view the vines and see the difference from one varietal to another. You will probably note, when visiting the vineyards of the County, that some vines have pre-positioned nets strung along each row to minimize the damage from birds as the grapes mature. It is yet another way grape growers are protecting their crop without using chemicals.

Birds, deer and raccoons enjoy grapes as much as we do, and are becoming used to the seasonal bounty provided the growers of Prince Edward County. The grape growers, in turn, have come up with innovative, nonchemical means to protect their crops. (If you want to protect birds from chemicals, don’t complain about the compressed-air bangers.)

THIS WEEK’S PICK
This week I tasted a truly sensational 2012 Gamay Rosé, crafted by John Battista Calvieri of Hubbs Creek Vineyard.

With fruit sourced from the Hillier Estate Vineyards, this rosé is a delight from nose to tail: showing lots of ripe red fruit, balanced acidity and hints of mace. With a sensible alcohol level of 11.5 per cent, you can always enjoy “just one more”. With only 80 cases of this wine produced, and a price of $17.95 , I expect it will be scooped up quickly. Don’t miss out.

Hubbs Creek Vineyard Gamay Rosé is only available at the winery, which only opened last month. Located on Danforth Road in Hillier, Hubbs Creek is presently open weekends.