Revitalizing Vine Health

Pruning, while a necessary part of viticulture, is the most invasive action performed on vines and has a profound impact on their health. Under the guidance of Jacopo Miolo, the US head of Simonit & Sirch, and led by our own Martin Ramirez, our team has embraced Simonit’s methods over the past three years.

The Simonit & Sirch Pruning Method: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Developed in collaboration with the University of Bordeaux, Simonit & Sirch's pruning technique is a modern interpretation of ancient practices, centered around four key principles:

1. Natural Branching

   Allowing vines to branch naturally as they age.

2. Trunk and Branch Utilization

   Making the best use of space within the trunk and branches.

3. Lymphatic Flow Improvement

   Enhancing the flow of the vine's lifeblood.

4. Small Cuts for Sap Flow

   Employing smaller cuts to improve sap circulation.

This method aims to prevent the formation of desiccation cones, and pyramid-shaped scar tissues inside vines caused by large pruning cuts. These cones can disrupt the vine's sap flow, reducing performance and increasing susceptibility to stress and diseases.

Soft Pruning: A Gentle Approach to Vine Health

Simonit & Sirch advocate for 'soft pruning,' which involves smaller, strategic cuts. Instead of cutting flush against the main branch, this technique leaves a gap about twice the diameter of the shoot. This method transfers the wound from the main plant body to a smaller offshoot, safeguarding the vine’s vital pathways.

Improving Vascular Flow and Combating Disease

A pivotal aspect of this technique is the enhancement of the vine's vascular flow, crucial for managing issues like drought. By optimizing sap flow, vineyards can more efficiently use available water. Additionally, by minimizing damage to the vine, this method helps combat fungal diseases such as esca, which penetrate through pruning wounds.

Addressing Modern Viticulture Challenges

Contemporary viticulture practices, particularly the geometric formation of vineyards, often clash with the natural growth patterns of vines, leading to various issues after 15-20 years. Simonit & Sirch's method addresses these challenges by respecting the vine’s innate tendencies, promoting healthier plants and better resilience to environmental stressors like drought.

Embracing Natural Techniques at Ojai Mountain

At Ojai Mountain, we're committed to adopting more natural and less invasive pruning techniques. This approach not only aligns with our sustainability ethos but has also been shown to lead to healthier vines, improved yields, and superior-quality wines. While this requires a paradigm shift from traditional practices, the positive impact on vine health and productivity is undeniable and a testament to our continuous pursuit of excellence in winemaking.