Do Trees Surrounding Vineyards have Impacts?

 The terroir, including soils, wind, proximity to the mountain, and weather, were some of the reasons we located LDV vineyards where they are. However, the vineyard is adjacent to Ash Creek, which is lined with 100-year-old live oak, sycamore, and ash trees. Not only do they provide great shade and temperature moderation, but they also provide a great habitat for raptors and birds of prey that help keep the rodent population down in the vineyard. Trees also clean the air and provide additional oxygen, which benefits the grapes. It also prevents post-rain ground erosion, as the deep roots hold the soil in place as water flows. Trees can impact grape flavors, such as Eucalyptus trees, imparting that flavor into the grapes at Martha’s Vineyard in Napa Valley. Our trees are beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. However, we are beginning to understand the effects they have on the vineyard and the taste of the wines we produce. Stay tuned as we continue our research.

Watch this short video as LDV’s winemaker discusses the impact.