Effective vineyard protection strategies in the Macedon Ranges

At Mount Monument, we understand the importance of protecting our vineyards, especially with the current weather patterns in the Macedon Ranges. As the climate continues to change, it brings new challenges for vineyard management, particularly concerning mildew prevention and overall vine health.

With the expertise of Rhys Iges and Luke Polson, we are diligently monitoring the vineyards for any signs of mildew. The fluctuating weather conditions make it crucial to keep a close eye on our vines. Our proactive approach includes trimming, hedging, tucking, and tidying the vines. These practices are essential for promoting airflow and sunlight penetration into the canopy, significantly reducing the risk of fungal infections. We are currently at the EL34 stage, just before veraison. This period is crucial as we patiently wait for the onset of veraison while keeping a vigilant watch on bird activity. As the grapes start to change color and soften, birds can become a significant threat. To mitigate this, we are prepared to deploy nets to protect the crop.

Rhys is also running top wires for the nets, which will help control the extensive vine growth. This step is vital for managing the vineyard’s growth and ensuring that the nets are effective in protecting the grapes. Additionally, with the soil moisture levels dropping rapidly, particularly in the baby vines on the northern terrace, we have ramped up our irrigation efforts. Ensuring that our vines have adequate water is crucial for their health and productivity.

As we move forward, we continue to monitor and adapt to the changing conditions. Our commitment to vineyard protection in the Macedon Ranges is unwavering. We strive to implement the best practices to ensure the health and productivity of our vines, safeguarding our crop for the future.

Our team is always ready to share our expertise and welcome you to experience our beautiful vineyards in the heart of the Macedon Ranges. By focusing on proactive vineyard management and addressing the specific challenges posed by the current weather patterns, Mount Monument remains dedicated to producing high-quality grapes and ensuring the longevity of our vines. Visit us today to see our commitment to excellence in action.