The Interim Verification Program is designed to aid nurseries in producing clean, saleable grapevines with a low risk of virus infection of Leafroll 1, Leafroll 3, Red Blotch and Tomato Ringspot Viruses.
About the Interim Verification Program
With the Interim Verification Program, CCGN tests propagative grapevine blocks for infection of Leafroll-1 and -3, Red Blotch, and Tomato Ringspot viruses, and then removes infected plants as well as any plants with a high risk for infection.
After the initial tests, we continue to monitor the propagating blocks to maintain their verified status. This includes keeping detailed records and labeling plants to easily identify CGCN-verified material.
A nursery with vines that test negative for the four viruses is eligible to use the CGCN marketing badge within communications and promotional materials - both print and online.
Growers can see which nurseries are participating in the Interim Verification Program and can be assured that they are purchasing verified propagative grapevine material.
This is meant to be a temporary measure, until there is a sufficient and sustainable quantity of plants being produced under the more rigorous Certification programs.
How It Works
- Grapevine field samples are collected by Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) Virus Testing Services and mapped (via GPS) for traceability.
- Composite samples (2 canes or 5 leaves per sample) are tested for four viruses of concern (Leafroll-1 and-3, Red Blotch, and Tomato Ringspot viruses) at CCOVI.
- Vines that test negative for the viruses can then be used by the nursery for propagation and sale as CGCN verified grapevines. Specific information on test results is kept confidential between the nursery and the lab.
- Propagating vines that test negative will be audited at a reduced rate in the following year, and vines that tested positive are subsequently removed.
- One annual inspection will be required by an independent inspector appointed by CGCN.
Custom Grapevine Propagation for Grape Growers & Wineries
We have opened up our Verification protocols to include grape growers and/or wineries who are enlisting the services of a nursery to propagate grapevines from their own vineyard and then purchasing the resulting grapevines for their own uses.
Current Program Participants
The following growers are currently participating in the Interim Verification Program. Please contact them directly for more information or to order their available products.
Upper Canada Growers
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Marquette, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Syrah, Gamay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Baco Noir available under this program.
Viticulture A&M
Québec
Crimson Pearl, Frontenac blanc, Frontenac gris, L'Acadie, Marquette, Osceola muscat, Petite Pearl and TP1-1-12 (tradename Veritage) are available under this program.
Vitis Import
Québec
Petite Pearl, St-Pépin, L'Acadie blanc, Frontenac noir, Frontenac blanc, Frontenac gris, Marquette, Seyval blanc, St. Croix and New York Muscat are available under the program.
Canadian Fruit Tree Nursery Co-operative
Jordan Station
Pinot Gris, Ivory, Jupiter and Timpson available under this program.