Diurnal Shift Importance

Drastic temperature swings between the daytime high to nighttime lows are critical for fine wine grapes. The desired 30-degree shift is called diurnal shift. Diurnal shifts are achieved by water, maritime influences, and altitude. It might be 95 degrees during the daytime and then 65 degrees or lower at night. During these temperature swings the plant tries to protect the seeds within the clusters. This diurnal shift balances sugars, thickens skins, and enhances flavor making better and more colorful wine.

At LDV Winery, we get the diurnal temperature shift during the growing season from our 5,000-foot altitude. This shift allows the wine grapes to gradually develop sugar, which is fundamental for alcohol and flavor, during the heat of the day and sunshine while the fruit’s acidity starts high and gradually decreases until harvest. As a result, LDV Winery grows exceptional wine grapes and produces wines that are well balanced, complex, and full of flavor. We believe the diurnal shift is a contributing factor.

This brief video further explains diurnal shift and its importance to wine.