WILLIAMSON VINEYARD

The grape vine is the source of all wine. Reaching the highest level of quality in wine is only possible by starting with the highest quality fruit. Maximizing fruit quality from any vineyard site can be a lengthy and costly experimental process, because the end results are only revealed after several seasons and huge investment.

TERROIR
There are multiple interactive factors to consider in achieving highest fruit quality. Selecting a site, the average length of the ripening season, the normal annual weather conditions, the soil type, fertility and drainage, the topography, sun exposure, and likely pest problems all need to be taken into account well before the first vine is planted. The combination of these factors is referred to as terroir.

GRAPE VARIETY
The terroir factors determine vine variety, vine density, row direction and spacing, irrigation and frost protection methods, vine training system, fertilization and pest control management. Our decisions on these issues are discussed further in the Williamson Vineyard Philosophy, more appropriately entitled “Why our wine is different”.

FARMING TECHNIQUES
Terroir and grape variety in turn affect choices in crop load, canopy management, harvesting and pruning. Every small decision in establishing and maintaining the vineyard needs to be a commitment to highest quality while maintaining a watch over practical economy. Yet even the most careful decisions are ultimately at the whim of our partner in this endeavor, Mother Nature herself. Farming techniques employed on the Williamson Wines estate vineyards are discussed further in the Williamson Vineyard Philosophy.