Posted: Jun 15, 2012 2:54 PM by Jennifer Long Updated: Jun 16,
2012 12:49 PM ROCHEPORT - A severe drought has left many local
farmers in a desperate situation. Hot temperatures and a dry
climate are threatening certain crops, causing farmers to look
up to the sky in search for any sign of moisture. But vineyards
are in a unique position. Not only do grape growers enjoy the
dry weather, but the lack of rain may make this year's harvest
better than ever. According to Andrew Allen, professor and
founder of the University of Missouri's Institute for
Continental Climate Viticulture and Enology, grapes thrive in
dry weather. And when you think about it, popular grape growing
locations, like California, have dry and hot climates. Once the
grape vines are established, they have a very high drought
tolerance. On average, vine roots grow 18 to 30 feet below the
ground, reaching down and across for water supply. "A little bit
of drought stress at this point actually enhances wine grape
quality so we like a little bit of