Vineyards prepare for frosts

Frost-fighting began in Central Otago vineyards yesterday, sparked by the unseasonal snowfall earlier this week, and grape-growers fear there is worse to come in the next few days.

With 1degC frosts predicted to hit the Queenstown area this morning and possibly colder temperatures tomorrow, a close watch is being kept for potential frost damage.

Veteran grape-grower and wine pioneer Alan Brady said the unusually low snow-line in the district meant a high risk for the region's vines, which were at a vulnerable stage.

In the 27 years since he first planted grapes in the Gibbston Valley, he had never seen the snow as low or as heavy as it had been this week.

Cromwell winemaker Rudi Bauer said frost-fighters turned on wind machines and sprinklers early yesterday to ward off the effects of a 1degC frost.

Mr Bauer said the next two days were crucial, and if temperatures dropped to -5degC, there would be little some owners could do to protect their vines.

"What we really need is an 18 degree day on Friday [today] and hopefully that will warm up the ground and prevent any serious frosts."

While some vineyards, such as Chard Farm, had helicopters on standby on Wednesday night, most were relying on wind machines and natural airflow to see them through this morning's cool conditions.

Chard Farm Vineyard viticulturist Michelle Crawford said the vineyard managed to get through the last two nights without using helicopters, but expected tomorrowmorning would be the "big one" .

"We'll certainly be watching."