The grape and wine sector in B.C. has undergone vast transformations over the last few decades, from mostly bulk wine production (based largely on hybrid varietals) to the production of high-end, quality wines produced from Vinifera grapes.
This evolution has, in part, been mandated by the realization that B.C., with a limited supply of good land suited for the production of wine grapes and the relatively high cost of production, can no longer economically compete in the inexpensive bulk wine segment of the market.
The consumer of B.C. wine is also becoming increasingly sophisticated and is looking for high quality wines of a diversity of styles. The change in consumer preferences has led the B.C. grape grower on a quest for the highest quality grape produced at the lowest environmental impact.
This Best Practices Guide for Grapes focuses on growing practices that lead to high quality grapes produced in an environmentally sustainable manner, using the principles of integrated fruit production.
This publication is designed for commercial grape producers and includes currently recommended grape production and pest management practices. The production guide steering committee welcomes constructive feedback on the content of this publication from growers and industry representatives.
For the convenience of growers, trade names are used where appropriate throughout this publication. This does not constitute an endorsement of the product nor a suggestion that like products are not effective.
This publication has been coordinated and edited by the BC Wine Grape Council and by agricultural specialists with the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture as well as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, in consultation with industry representatives and other agencies.
The B.C. Ministry of Agriculture and the BC Wine Grape Council do not assume liability for crop loss, animal loss, health, safety or environmental hazard caused by the use of products or practices recommended within the guide.
