Why is limiting water supply beneficial after a canopy has formed?

Limiting water supply after a canopy has formed can enhance the ripening process of grapes. When water is restricted, the vine undergoes a form of stress that is beneficial for grape quality. This stress typically leads to the concentration of sugars within the grapes, which is crucial for producing high-quality wine. As the vine adjusts to the reduced water availability, it focuses its energy on maturing the existing fruit rather than producing more foliage, which helps in developing balanced flavors and aromas.

Furthermore, this practice can also influence the acidity levels in the grapes, which is essential for achieving desired wine characteristics. Proper balance in sugar and acidity directly affects the overall quality of the harvested grapes, making this approach to managing water supply advantageous in viticulture, especially in regions where grapes are cultivated for wine production.