Marshall Edwards, vineyard operations manager of Quintessence Vineyards in West Richland, Washington, oversees more than 300 acres of Cabernet, most of them planted on Clone 8 in Warden silt loam, Hezel loamy fine sand and Starbuck loam.

And, despite the differences between clones, perhaps the bigger factor is soil and climate. Their overall takeaway: Clone 8 produces the most consistent yields and fruit. The clone also can impart different characteristics to the grapes and wine, whether it’s fruit size, acidity or tolerance to heat or cold.Īs some wineries turn to naming the clone as part of their marketing plans, grape growers are examining the benefits and detriments of different clones in the vineyard.Ī panel of growers from four Washington wine grape growing regions shared their experiences with different Cabernet clones at the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers conference in Kennewick, Washington, in February. Clonal selection is key to viral resistance and yield.

Some are aiming to stand out by returning to their roots. The trend is driving winemakers to seek new ways to differentiate their wines in a crowded marketplace. (TJ Mullinax/Good Fruit Grower)Ĭonsumers want variety, and wine consumers are growing increasingly sophisticated. “We know clones bring different attributes that can contribute to different wines,” says vineyard manager Joe Cotta. The vineyard has 132 acres in Cabernet clones. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are ready for harvest at Cold Creek Vineyard in 2015.

Clone 5 cabernet 2014