Pruning: Controlling yield

A fundamental question in relation to vine pruning is how many buds to leave on each vine at winter pruning. Does it matter? For many vignerons in the world this first question is never posed, as tradition or appellation laws dictate how the vines are to be pruned. The winter pruning period can be a time when the mind is put into neutral, and the body is braced to survive long days spent outdoors, often in unpleasant and cold weather. Quite often, traditional pruning practices are followed, and vigorously defended against any suggestion of change.