Clones and Rootstocks

Our clones and rootstocks were specially selected to produce a robust, flavorful assortment of grapes.

We have planted four clones of Cabernet Sauvignon on two different rootstocks. Clone 4 is grafted to rootstock 101-14, as are clones 7 and 15. Clone 337 is grafted onto rootstock 110R.

For Sauvignon Blanc, we have grafted clones 1 and Muscat onto rootstock 101-14.

Our Malbec is clone 9 on 101-14 rootstock, and our Petit Verdot is 400RE on 101-14 rootstock.

We used 101-14 rootstock extensively because it will allow the fruit to mature more quickly in the cooler climate that is typical down valley. Also, the rootstock should produce vines with controlled vigor. According to Hill, vines that are overly vigorous cause the fruit to mature later and develop an unwanted herbaceous character, instead of the luscious berry and cherry flavors that are desirable. Controlled vigor allows the vineyard manager to have greater control over the quality of the fruit. It is much easier to perk up under-vigorous growth with additional water than it is to control over-vigorous growth. That would require the planting of cover crops to compete with the roots and remove some of the moisture and nutrients from the soil.

The 110R rootstock was used in some areas because its roots get down deeper into the rocky soil. We will have to wait and see how the clones react on the different rootstocks.