Guyot vineyard trellis system

Characteristics of the Guyot vine training system

The Guyot vineyard trellis system, also known as the vertical shoot positioning (VSP) or espalier system, is one of the most widely used grapevine training systems in Italy, adopted by over 35% of winegrowers. Its popularity stems from its simple structure, which ensures excellent canopy aeration and ideal leaf exposure—critical for balancing fruit quality and yield.

In a typical Guyot setup, grapevines are planted approximately 1.3 to 1.8 meters apart along the row, and 2 to 3 meters between rows. The trellis is supported by steel vineyard posts—either galvanized or Corten steel—measuring 2.0 to 2.3 meters above ground, installed every 5 meters for optimal support and spacing.

Recommended materials

To ensure long-term durability and structural integrity, the use of galvanized vineyard posts or corten vineyard posts is highly recommended. Both options deliver excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. Complementary components such as wire tensioners, trellis wire, training stakes and vineyard anchors help complete the system and optimize the functionality of the vineyard installation.

Vineyard wire height in the Guyot system

In the Guyot training system, the height of the trellis wires is a key factor for proper vine canopy management. The first wire is typically positioned between 1 and 1.2 meters above ground, while the two upper wires are spaced approximately 40 centimeters apart. This layout ensures optimal support for the vine’s canopy and grape clusters throughout the growing season.

Guyot system variations in grapevine training

The Guyot system is particularly suitable for moderately dry and not overly fertile soils, typically found in hilly terrains. As a mixed pruning system—combining a spur and a fruiting cane—it has proven highly effective and serves as the foundation for most long-pruning methods. The classic single Guyot differs from other systems by always featuring just one spur and one fruiting cane. Over time, several key variations have emerged, including the double Guyot, the simple inverted Guyot, the double inverted or “cappuccina” Guyot, and the spurred palmette.

Double inverted Guyot

This variation combines the productivity and fruit quality benefits of a double fruiting cane with the inverted positioning technique, enhancing canopy management and vine balance.

Learn more

Simple inverted Guyot

Defined by the downward bending of the fruiting cane, this method improves sunlight exposure and promotes more uniform grape ripening.

Learn more

Double Guyot

This system uses two fruiting canes instead of one, effectively increasing yield potential while maintaining vine balance.

Learn more

Other vineyard trellis systems

Sylvoz vineyard trellis system

The Sylvoz system is ideal for cool, fertile soils and is distinguished by a permanent horizontal cordon positioned on the second wire. The Sylvoz system is ideal for cool, fertile soils and is distinguished by a permanent horizontal cordon positioned on the second wire. Fruiting canes, each carrying 8 to 12 buds, are arched and tied to a lower wire. Zinc-coated vineyard posts measuring between 2 and 2.5 meters in height support a structure with 5 to 6 wires. Recommended post spacing includes 6 meters within the row and 3 to 4 meters between rows. This system allows for efficient canopy management and is well-suited for mechanical pruning and harvesting.

Learn more

Casarsa vineyard trellis system

The Casarsa system is derived from the Sylvoz model and features a high trunk, typically between 1.5 and 1.8 meters, that extends horizontally with short fruiting canes allowed to arch downward naturally. Designed to facilitate mechanized pruning and harvesting, it works well in medium-fertility soils. The structure uses galvanized steel vineyard posts of about 2.5 meters and row spacing of 6 to 8 meters.

Learn more