Training system
Training system refers to the structural method by which a grapevine is shaped, supported and spatially organised in the vineyard. Together with pruning, the training system determines the permanent architecture of the vine and has a major influence on canopy structure, light interception, yield, grape composition and the practical management of the vineyard.[1]
Purpose and function
The primary purpose of a training system is to position shoots, leaves and fruit in a way that balances vegetative growth and crop load while optimising exposure to sunlight and air circulation. An effective system supports consistent ripening, reduces disease pressure and allows vineyard operations such as spraying, harvesting and pruning to be carried out efficiently.[2]
Training systems are closely linked to climate, grape variety, vine vigour, soil fertility and the intended wine style.
Relationship to pruning
Training systems define the permanent framework of the vine, while pruning determines the number and position of buds retained each season. The two practices are inseparable, as the choice of training system constrains pruning options and vice versa.[3]
Together, training and pruning regulate yield, vine balance and long-term vine health.
Major categories of training systems
Training systems can be broadly grouped according to shoot orientation and support structure:
- Head-trained systems, where vines have no trellis and shoots grow freely from a short trunk. These systems are common in dry, low-vigour environments and traditional vineyards.
- Vertical shoot positioning (VSP) systems, in which shoots are trained upward between wires, creating a narrow, vertically oriented canopy. VSP is widely used in cool to temperate climates and facilitates mechanisation.[4]
- Divided canopy systems, which split shoots or cordons horizontally or vertically to manage high vigour and improve light distribution.
- Pergola and overhead systems, where shoots are trained above the fruiting zone, often used in high-yield or table grape contexts and in some traditional wine regions.
Each system represents a compromise between canopy efficiency, yield control and labour requirements.
Climatic and viticultural considerations
Climate plays a central role in training system selection. In cool climates, systems that maximise sunlight interception and heat accumulation are favoured, while in warm or hot regions, shading of fruit may be desirable to reduce sunburn and preserve acidity.[5]
Vine vigour, driven by soil fertility and water availability, also influences system choice, as excessive vigour can lead to shading, poor fruit composition and increased disease risk if not properly managed.
Impact on grape and wine quality
Training systems directly affect canopy microclimate, which in turn influences sugar accumulation, acid retention, phenolic development and aroma formation in grapes. Well-designed systems improve light penetration and airflow around the fruiting zone, supporting uniform ripening and reducing fungal disease pressure.[6]
Poorly matched systems may result in uneven ripening, excessive yields or diminished wine quality.
Regulation and guidelines
While most training systems are selected at the discretion of the grower, some appellations and regulatory frameworks specify or restrict allowable systems in order to preserve regional typicity or control yields.[7] International bodies such as the OIV and FAO provide technical guidance on training systems suited to different viticultural conditions.[8]
See also
References
- ↑ Jancis Robinson, Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 17 Sept. 2015. ISBN 9780198705383.
- ↑ Markus Keller, The Science of Grapevines: Anatomy and Physiology, Academic Press Inc, 19 Jan. 2015. ISBN 9780124199873.
- ↑ Coombe & Dry, Viticulture Vol. 1, Winetitles, 1992, ISBN 978-1875130095.
- ↑ Smart & Robinson, Sunlight into Wine, Winetitles, 1991, ISBN 978-1875130033.
- ↑ PhD Jackson, Ronald S., Wine Science: Principles and Applications, Academic Press Inc, 14 April 2020. ISBN 9780128161180.
- ↑ UC Davis, “Training systems and yield”.
- ↑ OIV, “Vine training and pruning”.
- ↑ FAO, “Training systems in viticulture”.