The Introduction to Viticulture (HORT2004) is an undergraduate course offered on the Agricultural Campus of Dalhousie University (Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada) from September to December. The course examines the taxonomy, morphology and physiology of a grapevine including the growth, development and composition of the berries. Emphasis will be placed on the environmental regulation of grapevine grow
th, development, yield and composition, and management strategies to optimize grape production in cool-climate viticulture production areas. Included will be an examination of the importance of site selection, soil management, grapevine cultivars, rootstocks, production systems and vineyard establishment. Cultural management practices including pruning, training, canopy management, crop control, and mechanization will be discussed, and an overview of pest pressures and other environmental concerns including winter hardiness will be covered. Lastly, the harvesting and vinification of wine grapes will be examined with the inclusion of “hands-on” laboratory sessions. Successful completion of the course will give you a horticultural insight into the concept of “in vino veritas,” and should prepare you for upper-division courses in viticulture and oenology.
