A very interesting & well-researched article in the new Wines&Spirits on the importance of Mycorrhizal Networks in the subsoils to promote the communication between the vines and other plants in the neighborhood of the vnyd.
Since Patrick has no biological background (nor do I), I was impressed by his understanding the research.
This is, of course, based on Organic/Biodynamic farming. Surprised the farming by Fukuoka was not mentioned.
Some viticulture farmers forage in the adjacent forests for decomposing plant material to mulch their vnyds and promote growth of this network.
One Columbia Gorge owner, NateReady/HiyuFarm, planted a large number of different varieties in a field blend when he founded his vnyd. He noted as the Mycorrhizal Network developed, and the vines used it to communicate, the different varieties started to ripen at the same time and their flavors started to coalesce. Fascinating.
Anyway, worth buying the latest W&S for Patrick's article.
Tom