Viticulture/Vinification

Question 1

Describe the characteristics of a Mediterranean climate in regards to viticulture.

(Length of growing season, temperature, rainfall, seasonal change)

Answer 1

Defined by:
Long growing season, with moderate to warm temperatures

• Very little rainfall, most occurring during winter
• Little seasonal change, usually warmer than continental and maritime climates.

Question 2

Describe the characteristics of a Maritime climate in regards to viticulture.

(Length of growing season, temperature, rainfall, seasonal change)

Answer 2

Defined by:
Close proximity to large bodies of water with currents that regulate temperature. Shares characteristics of Mediterranean and Continental climates, often seen as a middle-ground.

• Long growing season
• Often subject to excessive rain and humidity during growing season
• Distinct seasonal changes, but less drastic than Continental climates

Question 3

Describe the characteristics of a Continental climate in regards to viticulture.

(Length of growing season, temperature, rainfall, seasonal change)

Answer 3

Defined by:
Marked seasonal change, with hot summers and winters cold enough for ice and snow. Typically inland without a large body of water.

• Moderate precipitation, usually in warmer months
• Shorter growing season

Question 4

Name 5 examples of a Mediterranean climate.

Answer 4

Tuscany
Southern Rhone
South Africa
Greece (most of it, at least)
Provenance
Languedoc / Rousillon
Chile's Central Valley
Napa Valley

Question 5

Name 5 examples of a Maritime climate.

Answer 5

Bordeaux
Champagne
Rias Baixas
New Zealand
Willamette Valley
Chile's Southern (Sur)

Question 6

Name 5 examples of a Continental climate.

Answer 6

Washington State (East of the Cascades)
Finger Lakes
Piedmont
Burgundy*
Northern Rhone*
Rioja
Texas High Plains
Texas Davis Mountains

*maritime by U.S. standards