Jerry DeAngelis wrote:

> Paul
>
> One book, not a really definitive one from the scientific perspective,
> but very good over all is "Vines to Wines" by Cox. He has a number of
> good tables in which he discusses degree days and varietals that need
> specific heat and sun. This book will most likely lead you to others.
>
> Another book that may help is Weaver's "Grape Growing" (John Wiley &
> Sons).
>
> I think that the folks at Cornell would be able to help you. If you
> cannot reach anyone there try UC Davis in CA. Their enology dept would
> know how to contact someone in the East relative to this issue.
>
> Regards
>
> Jerry
>
>
>
> "PFS" > wrote in message
> hlink.net...
>> I'm looking to start a small vineyard in the spring, with hopes of
> growing
>> it into a much larger vineyard over time. Soil prep is beginning this
> fall
>> when the backhoe arrives to dig the planting trenches. The purpose of
> the
>> vineyard will be 100% wine making. As I review supplier catelogs, I'm
>> overwhelmed by the # of different varieties. Where can I find good
>> information on the nature of particular varieties, and which will
> perform
>> best in my area?
>>
>> For those willing to offer advice, my farm is located in central
>> Pennslyvania, in USDA zone 6. It sits along the Susquehanna River, so
>> benefits from the river's protection from early frosts. Good slopes,
>> southern exposure, etc.
>>
>> Thanks in advance for any advice,
>>
>> Paul
>>
>>

I would advise you to contact the Pennsylvania Extension Service.
I don't have the number handy but here is the web address for the lab in
case you are considering having a soil analysis done:

http://www.aasl.psu.edu/

If you give them a call, I am sure they can point you in the right
direction. I am going to have them do some petiole analysis for me this
year since the State of Maryland no longer performs this service.

I live in Central Maryland and I can grow most vinifera varieties where I
live. I get some grapes from LaRue Vineyards near Seven Valleys, PA every
year. He grows a large variety of vinifera. This location is just across
the Maryland, Pennsylvan border and may be a little warmer than your
location. He does manage to ripen Cabernet Sauvignon almost every year.

Good luck. I know you will enjoy growing your grapes.

Another Paul