Last week as we visited wineries in the Northern Neck area of Virginia, ice-chilling winds buffeted us as we walked to vineyards. Even with the green foliage long past gone, the architecture of the vines is a statement of hope and a photographic opportunity.

However, the mind numbing temperatures of 5 degrees Fahrenheit brought up a question, “Will the roots survive these cold temperatures?” One winemaker commented, “Oh yes, there shouldn’t be any problem.”

Throughout the United States, there are several techniques used to protect grapevines from the icy cold of winter. First vineyard owners always try to choose grapevines that will be able to withstand temperatures too low or too high. Once the vineyards are in place, some vineyards will heap additional soil around their base. Other vineyards like on the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas in Michigan, expect enough snow to protect their vines. Last year when we visited these two peninsulas in January, there was very little snow and all of the winemakers and vineyardists were hoping for a substantial snowfall.

As much of a concern as cold winter temperatures are, most vineyards will be more affected towards spring hoping that the buds on the vines will not be subjected to a late spring frost. While some vineyards use wind machines to lessen the impact of a frost, many vineyards do not have wind machines.

In the meantime, we wish all vineyards a successful journey through severe ice chilling temperatures.

Cheers! Kathy