About roses and vineyards
Why do you often see rose plants growing at each end of a row of vines in wine country? The roses once served as an early warning system for vineyard growers. When roses suffered mildew, the growers knew they must swing into action before the vine leaves also suffered from mildew. Today there are much more modern and scientific ways of knowing when vines are susceptible to mildew and other fungus diseases. It now seems that roses are planted in vineyards for traditional or aesthetic reasons. As you can see in the photo above, the roses add a beautiful touch to this vineyard view. These are Zinfandel vines that belong to the Charles Krug winery in St. Helena. These vines can be seen from Highway 29 as one approaches the winery entrance heading north. The Peter Mondavi Family owns the Charles Krug winery. The winery recently opened a deli in their tasting room and visitors can purchase a picnic lunch and a glass of wine and enjoy their meal in a wonderful picnic area surrounded by these vineyards.
More about the Napa Valley wine country