This year, the vine has surprised us more than usual. Last Monday March 12, We noticed our Chardonnay vines starting to bud earlier than expected. It's not unusual for this variety to be the first to sprout, but this time it's done so even earlier than usual. Why is this happening?
The Chardonnay It is known for being one of the first to sprout due to its biological cycle. Its genetics make it more sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, allowing it to develop faster than other varieties. However, recent rains (50 liters in the last week) and the sun that has followed seem to have further accelerated this process.
This rain has been especially beneficial for the vines at this time. After their winter dormancy, the plants need to be well-hydrated to activate their metabolism and facilitate bud growth. Furthermore, a good level of soil moisture promotes root development and helps the vines absorb nutrients more effectively, laying a solid foundation for the rest of the growing season.
This could be positive if the weather remains stable, allowing for a optimal growth. But if they arrive frosts late ones, we could face a challenge. In any case, the vineyard has already begun its cycle, and now all that remains is to continue observing and learning from nature.
The harvest is still a ways off, but the story of this vintage has already begun. We will continue to watch closely how this early awakening of the vines unfolds.
