FROM VINE TO WINE – CHAPTER 2: THE BUDBURST

May announces not only the summer weather but also the moment of vines budburst. This is the second step of the vine life cycle.

The budburst occurs about twenty days after "the tears". (This corresponds to the time when the vine was cutted during the winter. The pruning wounds produce a secretion of sap which rises and points at the end of the cutting).

• But what is budburst?

It is the first step of the vine vegetative cycle and it is a crucial time because it is the one that fears the spring frosts the most. When the hatching of the first buds occurs, a thin layer appears. This layer is called the “downy cover” and it allows the protection of the young shoots from the cold. When the buds burst, the "downy cover" is pierced and this is what is called "budburst".

• When does budburst happen?

Aside from the fact that it takes place in April/May, the budburst can be more or less long depending on the grape variety. In fact, it has been noted that certain grape varieties such as Chardonnay or Pinot Noir were rather early while Cinsault or Ugni Blanc were rather late.

• What are the warning points to survey during the budburst of the vine?

Budburst may be delayed if temperatures fluctuate. For example, when it is hot too early in the winter, when the low temperatures persist for too long or when in the same day it is very cold in the morning and very hot in the afternoon. Budburst can also be compromised when sunshine is not optimal.

However, if all the right conditions are met, the buds will bloom without a hitch.