Topping and Trimming (Rognage et Cisaillage)

The vine is a creeper which never stops growing, especially with alternating sun and rainfall.

In July-August, topping and trimming means levelling the top and the sides of the vine, so as to enable a maximum of sunshine to reach the grapes, as well as good airing of the vine stock.

Usually done using a straddle tractor (rogneuse) followed by a manual clipping to ensure a précise trim around the grapes to make the picking easier when the time comes.