| | If terroir uniquely defines each vineyard and good viticulture permits the expression of this terroir, then Faure Wine Farms have paired these factors magnificently to produce world-class grapes.
Cool climate
Faure Wine Farms is situated 2.5 km from the Atlantic Ocean, with the vineyards covering the slopes of a hill that rises to 146m above sea level. The Eerste River at the base of this hill forms the eastern boundary for the farm. The close proximity to the ocean, with the cool sea breezes on the hill slopes, has resulted in a cool, maritime climate amidst the warmer surroundings.
Afternoon sea breezes off the Atlantic Ocean have a cooling effect, moderating the climate. The moderate temperatures experienced on the farm fit a type III cool to intermediate climate (using the Winkler and Amerine Degree Day System). This is in contrast to most inland farms, that are generally classified as the warmer type IV climatic region. The average temperatures during the ripening season in January and February are 23.7 and 21.8 respectively. Such temperatures are well suited for quality premium grape cultivars such as cabernet sauvignon.
The cool, maritime clilmate results in good colouring and optimum development of aroma and flavouring constituents in mature fruit - precursors of bouquet and flavour in wines.
Unique approach to management
The farm encompasses a wide range of aspects and altitudes. The cultivars, training and cultural practises are thus carefully matched to suite specific conditions. This helps to optimise the potential of each individual block in the vineyard. A detailed terroir analysis (using GIS) will be carried out to identify specific terroir units for cultivar and clone planning.
In addition, the management of individual blocks is tailored according to buyer speacification. A further refinement in the farming operations has been to adopt a biological approach to farming. This has reduced the use of industrially produced chemicals and encouraged an environmentally friendly farm environment.
Monitoring systems
A key management tool has been the implementation of state-of-the-art scientific monitoring methods. These include measurements of moisture and disease via stations whereby data in logged continously and downloaded directly into the computer system. Stem diameter measurements will be logged in the near future. This data allows informed decision making, and timely reactions. Early detection of moisture stress has improved control of ripening and the crop quality. Identification of environmental factors predisposing the crop to disease gives an early indication of when to spray the vineyards. This has significantly reduced disease outbreaks as well as excessive fungicide and herbicide use.
Well suited Soils
The soils on Faure Wine Farms range from medium sands to sandy clays perfectly suited to vineyard production. A wide range of soil types are present, catering for the exact requirements of the different cultivars. The soils have been carefully nurtured in recent years, resulting in good structure and excellent root formation of the vines.
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