Overcropping

overcropping, a vine condition which delays grape ripening and therefore reduces wine quality. It is associated with low leaf to fruit ratios. Overcropping can be due to pruning to many buds with some fruitful varieties, or to a loss of leaf area as a result of insect pests or fungal diseases. If climatic conditions are limiting for photosynthesis, as with low temperatures or very limited sunlight, then vines may be considered overcropped. The grapes of overcropped vines are typically lower in sugar, colour, and flavour, and have an increased ph. Wines made from such fruit are typically termed thin.