by Fritz Westover
What if you could hang out with experienced grape growers, ask them about the science of grape growing, vineyard operations, and more; then take an insight or two to improve your vineyard and ultimately the quality of the wines you produce? That’s what we do each week on the Vineyard Underground. Hosted by Fritz Westover –– viticulture expert more than 20 years of experience in the vineyard industry –– every episode is an in-depth look at grape growing methods, care, and even complicated matters of fertilization and pest and disease management? The goal is to provide you with an understanding of the complicated aspects of viticulture science so that experienced and even first-time grape growers will be able to understand and implement new practices in their vineyard.
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10/6/2022
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April 15, 2025
<p dir="ltr">Growers need to know which insects they need to treat and which they can ignore. While some insects pose a threat to grapevines, others can actually benefit them. In this episode, we have a discussion with the Distinguished Professor and Berry Crops Entomology Extension Specialist for Michigan State University, Dr. Rufus Isaacs, on this topic. Understanding when and what insects are actually a problem versus those that are hanging out or even providing a benefit is necessary for the health of your vineyard.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The insects that are most destructive during bud burst in the spring</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The insects that are destructive during bloom</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Methods and products for prevention and treatment of various pests</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">How to identify thrips</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The importance of weekly scouting and knowing what to look for</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Attend Fritz’s upcoming <strong>Winning with Shoot Thinning</strong> FREE LIVE Virtual Learning event on April 28th at 5:00 PM Central and ask your question live. Register for <strong>FREE</strong>: <a href= "http://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning">www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Come grow with Fritz through <a href= "https://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com</a>! Save <strong>$75 off</strong> your first year of membership with the code Underground at checkout. </p> <p dir="ltr">Download the <strong>Michigan State Mobile Guide for Grape IPM</strong>: <a href= "https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/a-mobile-guide-for-grape-ipm-scouting-in-north-central-and-eastern-u-s"> https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/a-mobile-guide-for-grape-ipm-scouting-in-north-central-and-eastern-u-s</a></p> <p dir="ltr">Listen to the related episode: Episode 21 - <strong>The Rise of the Spotted Lanternfly with Dr. Michela Centinari</strong> - <a href= "https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu021/">https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu021/</a> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Today’s Guest:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Dr. Rufus Isaacs is a Distinguished Professor and Berry Crops Entomology Extension Specialist for Michigan State University.</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Rufus: <a href= "https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/rufus_isaacs">https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/rufus_isaacs</a> </p> <p dir="ltr">View his research work: <a href= "https://www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu/">https://www.isaacslab.ent.msu.edu/</a> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>SensorInsight</strong> and by <strong>Vigneron Toy Store</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to <strong>SensorInsight</strong> for sponsoring today’s episode. SensorInsight is a leader in vineyard soil moisture and weather monitoring. SensorInsight designs state-of-the-art, remote satellite monitoring of soil moisture and weather, bringing actionable information for your vineyard operations straight to your phone, with real-time data so you can best decide when to turn on your irrigation, how long to run the system, and learn how the dynamics of soil moisture can change over a given season. Visit them today at <a href= "https://sensorinsight.io/">https://sensorinsight.io</a>. And don’t forget to mention the code <strong>Underground</strong> to receive a discount on your SensorInsight solution.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thank you to <strong>Vigneron Toy Store</strong> for sponsoring today’s episode. Vigneron Toy Store specializes in Harvesters, Sprayers, Frost Mitigation Equipment, Canopy Management Trimmers, and more. As grape growers themselves, they can expertly help you determine the best equipment for your specific vineyard needs. And, as a special offer for our podcast listeners, you can save 5% off in-stock machines by entering the promo code <strong>Underground</strong> on the contact form at <a href= "https://www.vignerontoystore.com/">vignerontoystore.com</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
April 1, 2025
<p dir="ltr">In this episode, we are joined by Alice Wise from Cornell University to talk about vineyard floor management and how concepts and best practices for vineyard floor management have evolved in recent years. Alice has been following trends and successes for grape growers in Long Island, New York, and across the Mid-Atlantic in general with her extension and research roles, and we know you are going to love what she has to share with us. </p> <p dir="ltr">Listen in to discover the evolution of vineyard floor management today!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Why growers decided they wanted a change in their management practices.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">About Alice’s sustainability program on the East Coast.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The types of mechanical cultivation that were tried and their problems.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">What a lysimeter is and how it’s used.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">How to do your own cover crop research. </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Attend Fritz’s upcoming <strong>Winning with Shoot Thinning</strong> FREE LIVE Virtual Learning event on April 28th at 5:00 PM Central and ask your question live. Register for <strong>FREE</strong> <a href= "http://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning">www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you have questions about today’s episode or ideas for future episodes, go to <a href= "http://vineyardundergroundpodcast.com">VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com</a> and click the <strong>Ask Fritz</strong> button. </p> <p dir="ltr">Come grow with Fritz through <a href= "http://virtualviticultureacademy.com">VirtualViticultureAcademy.com</a>! Save $75 off your first year of membership with the code <strong>Underground</strong> at checkout.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Today’s Guest:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Alice Wise</strong> is a Viticulture Researcher with the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Alice at <a href= "https://ccesuffolk.org/staff/alice-wise">https://ccesuffolk.org/staff/alice-wise</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>Clemens Technologies</strong> and by <strong>Shellt Grow Tubes</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit <a href= "https://www.clemens-online.com/us/">https://www.clemens-online.com/us/</a> and provide the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at <a href= "mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> with any questions.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shellt</strong> makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit <a href= "https://www.shellt.us/">https://www.shellt.us/</a> and order with the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to save 15% off all online orders plus free shipping within the continental United States.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
March 18, 2025
<p dir="ltr">In this episode, we explore the world of sparkling wine production in unconventional regions with Mark Wenzel from Illinois Sparkling Wine Company and August Hill Winery, and Kaibab Sauvage from Sauvage Spectrum Winery in Colorado. These winemakers discuss their process of adapting viticulture to thrive in challenging climates, turning high-acid grapes into naturally sparkling wines without relying on conventional carbonation methods. </p> <p dir="ltr">The episode covers their brands' evolutions, vineyard management techniques, and creative varietal blends. Additionally, Mark and Kaibab share about vineyard management, yield strategies, and future innovations in sparkling wine. </p> <p dir="ltr">Listen in for inspiration and practical advice for grape growers and winemakers interested in expanding into non-traditional locales.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>In this episode, you will hear:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Sparkling wine production in non-traditional regions like Illinois and Colorado.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Adapting viticulture for cold climates.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">The transition from carbonated to naturally sparkling wines.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">The varieties that Mark and Kaibab like to use.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Vineyard management strategies, including yield management and trellis innovations.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Tips for harvesting and managing vineyards specifically for sparkling wine production.</li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Follow and Review:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click the ‘+ Follow’ button in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vineyard-underground/id1648761941"> Apple Podcasts</a>. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Resources:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Do you have a question for Fritz?</p> <p dir="ltr">Attend Fritz’s upcoming <strong>Winning with Shoot Thinning</strong> FREE LIVE Virtual Learning event on April 28th at 5:00 PM Central and ask your question live. Register for <strong>FREE</strong> <a href= "http://www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning">www.virtualviticultureacademy.com/winning</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Or go to <a href= "https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/">VineyardUndergroundPodcast.com</a> and click the <strong>Ask Fritz</strong> button, to submit a question online for Fritz.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Today’s Guests:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Mark Wenzel</strong> is the founder and owner of August Hill Winery and the Illinois Sparkling Company.</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Mark at <a href= "https://augusthillwinery.com/">https://augusthillwinery.com/</a> or <a href="https://iscbubbly.com/">https://iscbubbly.com/</a></p> <p dir="ltr">or follow him at <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/augusthillwinery/">https://www.instagram.com/augusthillwinery/</a> or <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/illinoissparklingco/">https://www.instagram.com/illinoissparklingco/</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Kaibab Sauvage</strong> is the owner and manager of Colorado Vineyard Specialists LLC and the co-founder of Sauvage Spectrum Estate Winery & Vineyard.</p> <p dir="ltr">Connect with Kaibab at <a href= "https://sauvagespectrum.com/">https://sauvagespectrum.com/</a> or follow him at <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/coloradovineyard/">https://www.instagram.com/coloradovineyard/</a> or <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/sauvagespectrumwines/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/sauvagespectrumwines/?hl=en</a> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Sponsor:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Today’s episode was brought to you by <strong>Shellt Grow Tubes</strong> and by <strong>Clemens Technologies</strong>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit <a href= "https://www.shellt.us/">https://www.shellt.us/</a> and order with the code UNDERGROUND to save 15% off all online orders plus free shipping within the continental United States.</p> <p dir="ltr">Clemens Technologies is the market leader in machinery for all elements of vineyard management. Visit <a href= "https://www.clemens-online.com/us/">https://www.clemens-online.com/us/</a> and provide the code <strong>UNDERGROUND</strong> to receive 5% off your order of in-stock machinery. Or reach out to Thomas Clemens directly at <a href= "mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> with any questions.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Episode Credits</strong></p> <p>If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at <a href= "https://emeraldcitypro.com/">https://emeraldcitypro.com</a>. Let them know we sent you.</p>
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