The grapes you grow – either to sell or to make into a wine – is a huge decision based on many factors.
- Does your site support the grapes you’d like to grow? Shady, cool site? Say goodbye to Cabernet Sauvignon!
- Is there a commercial demand for the grapes? If you’re selling grapes only, do wineries want the grapes you have? If you’re making wine, are you able to creatively market a grape that might have an unusual name, and little market visibility?
- Is it possible to get the vines you’re interested in?
- Is the varietal susceptible to insect damage, and disease? And if so, are you prepared to manage these issues?
The Maryland Wineries Association produced the Commercial Vineyard Expansion course. This course includes the topics What the Industry Wants & Needs, an Introduction to Grape Growing, Site Evaluation and Design, Implementation, Canopy Management, Diseases and Equipment.
With the support of University of Maryland Extension’s Viticulturist & Small Fruit Specialist, Dr. Joe Fiola, MWA has developed a must-review slide show of cultivars being researched across the state.
The Maryland Grape Growers Association also has a Recommended Wine Grape Varieties section of their site.
And once you’ve planted those grapes, download the free MyIPM app to identify and stay on top of the diseases and fungicide choices that can impact your vineyard. Our state pathologist, Dr. Mengjun Hu, contributed to the app.
