Effect of Altitude on Cold Damage and Phenophase Durations in cv. Karaerik

Karaerik, the only standard table grape variety of Erzincan, distinguishes itself from other grape varieties with its training system and unique taste. This variety, which has a high commercial value, is also a natural heritage and is an important example of Türkiye in terms of sustainable viticulture. In Erzincan Üzümlü district, where Karaerik grape cultivation is widespread, the vineyards are located between 1150 m and 1650 m altitude. In this study, the damage levels caused by low winter frosts in vineyards at different altitudes and the effectiveness of the methods used to determine these damage levels were investigated. In addition, the phenophase stages of the grapevines that occur between the pruning and harvest periods depending on the altitude were determined. Within the scope of the study, frost damage in Karaerik vineyards located at 1200 m, 1300 m, 1400 m and 1500 m altitudes throughout the district was determined by cross sectioning, shooting and real-time shooting methods and tests, and it was revealed to what extent the sectioning and shooting methods and damage detection confirmed real-time shooting. In all of the methods used, it was determined that the most frost damage occurred in the bottom buds (first 3 buds) of the vineyard at an altitude of 1200 m, and in terms of bud type, the damage in the primary buds was greater than the secondary and tertiary buds. The cross sectioning method confirmed 83.02% of real-time shooting test, while the shooting method confirmed 93.06%. The number of days between pruning-bud break, bud break-full bloom, full bloom-veraison, veraison and beginning of harvest increased from 1200 m altitude to 1500 m altitude. Taking the altitude factor into account in cultural processes in Karaerik vineyards will both increase the sustainability of local viticulture and carry a genetic heritage to future generations.