The lake also offers protection against spring frosts by keeping the surrounding area's temperature cooler than further inland. This prevents the vines from breaking bud until frost potential is lower. T he difference in temperature between the land and lake creates a constant breeze. While the prevailing wind is from southwest to northeast, the direction of the temperature-induced airflow will depend on which is warmer, the land or water. The firm breeze enables excellent penetration and drying of vine canopies for fungal disease prevention.
T o take advantage of the lake effect, the lake has to be able be seen from the vineyards.
Any site located beyond the first major hill is precluded the protection and macroclimate the lake offers. The physical structure of the land blocks any positive aspects of the water on the leeward side of the slope. T he lake is the major factor in minimizing winter kill challenges. It offers protection not available further inland and makes growing a vinifera vineyard both possible and economically feasible. F rom 1960 through 1990, a span of thirty years, fifteen winters had low temperatures of minus five degrees Fahrenheit or below, the point of major vine damage.