It’s budburst in the Grampians wine region and winemakers and viticulturists are excited.
Grape vines are deciduous. After fruiting in summer they lose their leaves during autumn and go into dormancy for winter. In early spring grape vines use the energy stored in their roots and wood to create new leaves. These leaves burst from their buds, hence the term “budburst”.
The air temperature, soil temperature and variety of the vine will all play a role in when budburst occurs.
Interestingly, Nebbiolo is one of the first grape varieties to burst and also one of the last varieties to ripen making it a risky variety to grow as it is more susceptible to weather events (like frost) and disease.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the last varieties to burst.
“Budburst is a little later than the last few seasons due to the wet and mild start to spring,” according to Adam Louder, SubRosa co-founder and winemaker.
Budburst in the Grampians is the beginning of another growing season and vintage. A reason to get excited. Vintage 2023 will be here before we know it!