Why did Romans plant grapes on hillsides?
The Romans were highly skilled in the art of winemaking and understood the importance of choosing the right location to cultivate grapes. One of the reasons why they planted grapes on hillsides was due to the added benefit of shielding the vines from the cold northern winds. As a sommelier and brewer, I have personally experienced the difference in grape quality and flavor when grown in a protected area versus an exposed one.
Hillsides offer a natural barrier against the harsh winds that can damage delicate grapevines. The constant gusts from the north can easily strip the vines of their leaves and disrupt the fruiting process. By planting the vines on hillsides, the Romans ensured that their grapes were sheltered from these strong winds, allowing them to thrive and produce high-quality fruit.
Moreover, the rivers running through the valleys provided an additional advantage for grape cultivation. The Romans understood that the reflection of sunlight off the water would offer extra warmth to aid in ripening the grapes. This radiant heat, combined with the microclimate created by the hillsides, created optimal conditions for grape growth.
During my travels through wine regions, I have often witnessed the impact of rivers on vineyards. In one particular region, the vineyards situated near a river consistently produced grapes with excellent ripeness and flavor. The vineyards further away from the river struggled to achieve the same level of maturity and quality. This firsthand experience reinforced the Romans' choice to plant grapes near rivers for the added warmth they provided.
In addition to protection from winds and the warmth from rivers, planting grapes on hillsides also offered other advantages. The well-drained slopes prevented waterlogging, ensuring that the vines' roots did not become waterlogged. Excess water can lead to root rot and negatively impact grape quality. By planting on hillsides, the Romans ensured that any rainwater would quickly drain away, maintaining the ideal moisture levels for the vines.
Furthermore, hillsides often have a more diverse soil composition compared to flatlands. This variation in soil types can contribute to the complexity of the grapes and ultimately the wines produced. Different soil types offer different mineral compositions, which can affect the flavor profile of the grapes. By planting on hillsides, the Romans could harness the diverse soils to create wines with unique characteristics.
The Romans planted grapes on hillsides for several reasons. The shielding from cold winds, the warmth provided by rivers, and the well-drained slopes all played a crucial role in creating optimal conditions for grape cultivation. The Romans' understanding of these factors and their careful consideration of the vineyard location contributed to their success in winemaking. As a sommelier and brewer, I continue to appreciate the wisdom of their choices and the impact it has on the quality and character of the wines we enjoy today.