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Notes:
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The aim of this study was to elucidate the soil forming processes of representative vineyard soils, and to discuss the implications on a soil-based viticultural zoning at very
detailed scale. The study area is located in Priorat, Penedès and Conca de Barberà
viticultural areas (Catalonia, North-eastern Spain). The studied soils belong to
representative soil map units determined at 1:5,000 scale, according to Soil Taxonomy
classification. The soil forming processes, identified through morphological and
micromorphological analyses, have significant effects on some soil properties. For
example, the different processes of clay accumulation in soils developed from
granodiorites in Priorat or gravel deposits in Conca de Barberà, are primarily
responsible for significant differences in clay content, available water capacity and
cation exchange capacity. These soils properties, especially those related to soil
moisture regime, have a direct influence on vineyard management and grape quality.
However, soil forming processes are not always reflected on soil classification,
especially in soils modified by man. We show that climate or geology alone cannot be
used in viticultural zoning at very detailed scale, unless soil forming processes are taken
into account. |
