Unseasonably warm weather in Grand Junction, Colorado, has local winemakers keeping a close eye on their vineyards. With temperatures feeling more like spring than winter, experts worry about the long-term effects on grapevines if the pattern continues.

How Temperature Affects Dormancy

Each winter, grapevines enter dormancy after the harvest, hardening to survive the cold months. This natural process protects the plants from freezing damage. However, extended periods of warmth in winter can disrupt dormancy and create problems.

Melanie Wick, owner of Whitewater Hill Vineyards, explained the potential risks. “If we were to have an entire month of 70° temperatures in January and then we froze hard in February or March, that could not only damage the shoots of the grapevines, but it could also split trunks if there’s still fluid left there.”

The Importance of a Gradual Warm-Up

For vineyards, a slow and steady rise in temperatures is crucial. A sudden jump to spring-like conditions followed by a harsh freeze can be catastrophic. Wick emphasized the ideal scenario: “Hopefully we’ll see some colder temperatures coming along. And hopefully things will gradually get those vines back to being really cold hearty through the winter. If we gradually have a slightly warmer, slow warmth to our spring, the vines will do great.”

Preparing for the Unpredictable

Local vineyards are adjusting their strategies to mitigate potential losses. Wick shared their approach to vineyard management in response to fluctuating temperatures:

• Pruning Adjustments: The team will begin pruning by cutting back excess vine growth while leaving a few extra buds intact as a safeguard.
• Delayed Final Pruning: The last round of pruning will happen later in the season to account for any unexpected cold snaps.
• Monitoring Weather Trends: Keeping a close eye on temperature patterns helps vineyards make informed decisions.

Lessons from the Past

This isn’t the first time Whitewater Hill Vineyards has faced weather-related challenges. In 2021, similar conditions led to a smaller-than-usual crop. By learning from past experiences, winemakers hope to minimize damage and preserve this year’s yield.

As the climate continues to shift, vineyards in Colorado and beyond may need to adapt to an increasingly unpredictable environment. For now, growers remain cautiously optimistic, hoping for a return to more stable winter temperatures.