Cluster thinning time

Most shoots (laterals) now have 2-4 clusters. Usually only three, but sometimes up to 4 clusters. The standard thinning method is to leave only one cluster closest to the cordon, so you don’t over produce and near the top wire so the sun can get to it easier.  Too much fruit on the vine will affect veraison (ripening/coloring). I recently read on the more vigorous vines, you can leave two clusters and still get the same quality of fruit. I’m going to try this on the Black Spanish vines and see how it goes.

Sad pinching off all the clusters, but it has to be done.