Varietals and clones were chosen by looking at the history of the most successful vineyard blocks that have produced the finest wines in the Los Alamos Valley for the last two decades. It was important to use the knowledge and experience that has been gathered over the years to help dictate the proper plant material for each of the 20 blocks that reside on this 48 acre planting. Extensive soil, aspect and climate analysis for each site ultimately dictated the decisions to plant the various varietal/clone/rootstock combinations that were chosen. Thorough virus testing of the scion material along with the use of 100% "Protocol 2010" rootstocks ensures that only clean plant material was used for this spectacular new vineyard development.
The vines were planted in June, 2015.
Click here for a complete listing of clones and rootstocks.
The Portico Hills Vineyard is planted to primarily high density 7' x 3' spacing with a VSP trellis system. High density planting allows fewer pounds of fruit per vine resulting in highly concentrated grapes. Vines will be trained to a unilateral cordon.
The vineyard will be farmed in a sustainable manner. No pre-emergent herbicides, no category 1 pesticides will be used. The vineyards will be monitored on a weekly basis for pests and disease to ensure only specific and timely spraying as necessary.