Explained: What are grapevine clones?

We are often asked what are clones and why do they matter. As part of our Explained series, we want to answer what they are and how you can make a decision on them. Clones matter a lot, especially in the cool climate of Britain. It can mean the difference between exceptional wine and a grape that never quite has the chance to ripen properly. In this article, we'll focus on two varieties that we are often asked about, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

What Exactly is a Grapevine Clone?

If you planted a seed from a Chardonnay grape, the same plant would not grow. To keep a variety consistent, growers use vegetative propagation (taking cuttings). However, over centuries, tiny natural mutations occur in different vines of the same variety. When a nursery finds a specific vine with desirable traits like smaller berries, better disease resistance, or earlier ripening they propagate it specifically. That genetic line is called a clone. The same is true of the apples you might find in a supermarket. Over generations, we have picked the trees that produce the juiciest apples or the biggest apples.

What About Britain?

We can now make more informed choices about the grapes we grow here in Britain. It's why our wines have improved enourmously since the wine industry first started growing in the late 1980s. We have long daylight hours but lower heat units compared to say Champagne or Burgundy. This makes clonal selection important in Britain. So, here growers look for two main things:

1. Early Ripening: To beat the autumn frosts.

2. Loose Bunches: To allow airflow and prevent rot in our humid maritime climate.

Pinot Noir (Still vs Sparkling)

Pinot Noir has more clones than almost any other variety so we understand why growers have so many questions. As a good rule of thumb, the choice usually depends on whether the you want to create still or sparkling wine. We can split them up into the traditional French areas where the vines gained notoriety.

Champagne Clones: 386, 521

These are bred for high yields and higher acidity. They are the workhorses of British Sparkling wine, providing the structure and backbone for crisp bubbles.

Dijon Clones: 115, 667, 777

These are more suited to still red wine production. Clone 115 is a popular choice in the UK, it ripens early and produces elegant, aromatic wines with silky tannins.

What about Chardonnay?

Chardonnay is often planted in a trio with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. With Chardonnay, you are picking a clone based on reliability and flavour.

Clones 76 & 95: These are widely planted across the south and are known for being well-balanced with good aromatic potential.

Clones 121 & 124: These are often selected for their consistent yields. In Britain, we are no stranger to a wet and rainy June that can ruin flowering. 121 and 124 are more reliable and resilient clones.

Field Blends

You may have heard the term 'Field Blend' for wines. Many winemakers plant a 'Field Blend' of several clones, especially in Pinot Noir. These are blended from different clones, one clone may provide a citrus and floral flavour whilst another provides the bulk and alcohol.

We can help you choose a popular clone or if you would like more information please contact the Vinehouse directly at info@thevinehouse.co.uk