Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/155925
SOIL REMI COHEN & CELLAR be available in limited amounts in the 2013-2014 dormant season. Of the 100 acres available to FPS at Russell Ranch, 20 have been trellised for scion material, and an additional 10 have been prepped for rootstock plantings. Prioritization for clonal and rootstock material is given to historically popular material as well as those clones and rootstocks that are perceived to be trending. As of February 2013, all of the vines planted at Russell Ranch had tested negative for the newly discovered grapevine red blotch-associated virus (GRBaV) that causes red blotch disease. In the classic blocks, only three of the 1,600 vines that had been tested in February were positive: a proprietary selection of chardonnay no longer available; Thomcord 02, and Ruby Cabernet 02. This is good news, as these classic blocks continue to provide plant material for the indus- try as it awaits the new Russell Ranch material. It obviously takes a tremendous effort to supply clean mother blocks of plant material. The reality is that what happens at FPS is only the beginning of the effort: Nurseries and growers need to maintain and propagate clean plant material. And there are challenges along the way. Although plant material might be clean when it is planted, there are insect and nematode vectors that spread viruses. It is commonly known that mealybugs spread certain strains of leafroll virus, and that the nematode Xiphinema index spreads fanleaf virus. Researchers are investigating whether or not there are vectors for red blotch. Nurseries have every incentive to supply their clients with clean plant material in order to maintain customer satisfaction and protect reputations. Nurseries are required to pay assessments on vines they purchase from FPS to support the FPS programs, and they often recommend that their clients purchase certified plant material to better ensure quality. In order to cultivate a certified increase block, a nursery must adhere to the regulations of the California Grapevine Registration and Certification Program and source material from FPS foundation blocks, such as the new Russell Ranch block, which contain only vines that have been produced according to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) regulations for foundation stock. Nursery increase blocks must also be planted in virgin ground surveyed by CDFA and undergo inspections and testing as needed. These programs are supported via assessments to the nurseries' customers when they purchase vines. George Petersen Insurance Agency Your Trusted Insurance Partner Since 1935 With deep roots in the wine country, we have a team of industry experts that specialize in vineyard & winery insurance coverages. Our wine program includes: • Experience Modification Projection • On-Site Safety & Human Resource Services • In-House Claims Review & Management • Online Safety & Loss Control Platform • Winery Bond Program • Access to a wide range of competitive carriers George Petersen Insurance Agency | 1.800.236.9046 | www.gpins.com | License # 0603247 32 V I N E YARD & WINERY MANAGEMENT | Sept - Oct 2013 w w w. v w m m e d i a . c o m