Catawba grapes are one of our hardier grape varieties, so we prune them earlier in the dormant season than the more cold tender varieties.  We started pruning Monday, November, 28th. Based upon suggested pruning formulas and pruning weights we are leaving 20 buds this year.  Pruning weight was down from last year in the research vineyard, in part because it is and older planting and the vines need to be renewed or a new vineyard established.