Traditionally used against hail, these nets can become an essential tool for protecting vines from excessive sunlight and summer heat, serving as a valuable ally in wine production.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make the most of hail protection nets by unlocking their full potential.
Hail protection nets are commonly used in agriculture to shield crops from the damaging effects of hail. Made from durable materials such as polypropylene and available in varying thicknesses, installing hail nets in vineyards requires careful planning to ensure effective protection. They are typically mounted on a support structure and installed along the vineyard rows, creating a protective barrier that acts like a shield. The nets are stretched evenly to form a continuous cover that safeguards the plants. In this way, the leaves, fruit, and vines are protected, minimizing losses in wine production.
The lifespan of hail protection nets depends on the quality of the materials used and the surrounding environmental conditions. When properly installed and well-maintained, they can last between 5 and 10 years. However, UV rays, severe weather and strong winds can cause damage over time, which is why regular inspections of the vineyard are essential to detect and prevent potential issues.
Beyond hail protection, these nets offer additional advantages. They shield crops from strong winds, reduce water loss by maintaining soil moisture, and help regulate temperature. Thanks to their ability to filter sunlight, they provide shade over the vines, reducing direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. This shading effect helps protect crops from excessive heat, lowering the risk of damage to both the plant and the quality of the harvest.
Thus, in addition to guarding against hailstorms, hail protection nets contribute to creating a more favorable microclimate for vine growth, enhancing resilience to extreme weather conditions and supporting healthy development and high-quality production.
Boroli has always sought the perfect balance between innovation, experimentation and the flavors of tradition, offering a wine with a unique and irresistible taste. In response to the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events, Cantina Boroli decided to test alternative solutions by implementing advanced technologies in the Villero Vineyard, aiming to improve both crop protection and the quality and flavor of the final product. This vineyard is one of the most renowned in the Castiglione Falletto area, both in terms of quality and exposure. The combination of clay-limestone soil and its south/southwest orientation made it the ideal site for testing hail protection nets as a shield against sunlight.
To understand how the terrain would respond to the experiment, nets were placed only on the south-facing slope of the vineyard, with the aim of evaluating their effectiveness in offering sun protection beyond their traditional use against hail.
The objective of applying hail protection nets over the vines is to shield the plants from excessive heat caused by climate change. Two different mesh textures 15% and 40% shade were used. At the end of the planned period, data will be assessed to evaluate the outcome of the experiment, focusing on the health of the Nebbiolo grapes and the wine’s organoleptic profile. Barolo Villero is a structured, powerful wine with a deep aromatic profile. Its extended maceration allows it to express its best qualities even many years after harvest.
The use of data loggers plays a key role. These devices, placed in strategic locations, will collect average summer temperatures under the nets, allowing real-time monitoring of how the nets influence temperature control, with a particular focus on grape ripening. Data loggers help create a detailed overview of seasonal trends, enabling more efficient vineyard management and ensuring each cluster reaches its full potential, ultimately aiming to achieve the highest possible grape quality. It’s a perfect balance of innovation and tradition, two cornerstones of high-quality viticulture.
As mentioned above, each data logger measures specific parameters such as temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind speed. These tools are essential for monitoring daily thermal fluctuations and assessing the effectiveness of the nets in mitigating high temperatures. They also help evaluate sunlight exposure and its impact on grape development and final wine quality. Soil and air humidity levels are also recorded: crucial metrics for understanding optimal growing conditions and preventing disease. Finally, wind speed measurements help determine the force of air currents that could potentially harm the vines or affect humidity levels.
Entrepreneurs since 1831, the Boroli family embraced the winemaking world by turning their passion for wine and the Langhe region into a profession built on dedication and commitment. Boroli wines never compromise: they are born from the traditions of the Langhe, both in the vineyard and in the cellar, enriched by experimentation and boldness.
A great wine begins with a great vineyard and a great terroir. These elements are essential to crafting a wine that meets the expectations of our customers, offering a unique flavor that reflects the essence of Cantina Boroli’s vineyards.
Visit our website to explore all our wines: you’re sure to find the perfect bottle for any occasion.
The Boroli cellars, located in Castiglione Falletto, are the perfect place to experience the magical territory of the Langhe through tasting experiences and to enjoy an unforgettable experience of discovery and great wine.
Via Brunella, 4 12060
Castiglione Falletto (CN) Italia
info@boroli.it
+39 0173 62927
Via Brunella, 4 12060
Castiglione Falletto (CN) Italia
info@boroli.it
+39 0173 62927
