Cover crops have become one of the defining features of sustainable viticulture. They reduce soil erosion, increase soil organic matter, improve biodiversity and enhance soil structure. But in warm, Mediterranean climates, they also create one of the industry’s biggest management dilemmas. How do you capture the environmental benefits of cover crops without sacrificing vine performance through increased competition for water? A new three-year study conducted across commercial

Preserving Your Vineyard Assets During Market Downturns. Periods of oversupply and reduced demand can place significant financial pressure on vineyard businesses. When grape prices fall below the cost of production, continuing to manage a vineyard for maximum yield may no longer be economically viable. As a result, an increasing number of growers are considering an alternative strategy known as vineyard mothballing. Rather than removing vines or abandoning a block altogether,

Fertiliser is one of the largest annual operating expenses in many vineyards, yet it is often applied based on historical practice rather than actual vine requirements. In an era of increasing input costs and growing pressure to improve environmental stewardship, soil nutrient analysis has become an essential management tool for vineyard profitability. Many vineyards continue to apply fertiliser at rates that were established years ago. While these programs may have been appr

In many vineyards, pruning is scheduled around labour and logistics rather than vine physiology. However, the period between harvest and natural leaf fall is critical for carbohydrate accumulation, nutrient retranslocation, and dormancy progression. Pruning before full senescence can reduce reserve recovery and weaken vine performance the following season. Post-harvest canopies remain physiologically active long after fruit removal. During this phase, the vine reallocates car

Botrytis bunch rot, caused by Botrytis cinerea, continues to be one of the most economically significant diseases in wine production. Even in regions that are not consistently humid, short periods of rainfall combined with dense canopies and prolonged leaf wetness can create ideal infection windows. The consequences are well known: yield loss, reduced sugar accumulation, compromised flavour development, and oxidative instability in the winery. As sustainability expectations r

Post-harvest is not a shutdown phase — it is a reserve accumulation phase. Once fruit is removed, the vine reallocates photosynthate and nutrients into trunks, cordons, and roots. These reserves determine spring vigour, bud fertility, early shoot growth, and resilience under stress.

Commit to annual soil testing. Track the numbers. Manage trends early. Protect structure, nutrient efficiency, and vine longevity before constraints develop.

Hot and dry weather events have become increasingly common across Australian wine regions, prompting questions from grapegrowers about the impacts on vine performance and fruit quality and what management strategies might help mitigate negative effects. Sunburn and Berry Damage All grapevine varieties are susceptible to sunburn, though the degree of susceptibility varies with variety and canopy condition. Exposure to high temperatures post-veraison is particularly damaging be

Flowering is one of the most influential stages in a grapevine’s annual cycle—yet it’s often the most overlooked when it comes to nutrition. For growers aiming to improve fruit set, reduce variability, and set the vine up for a balanced season, what happens nutritionally in the few weeks around bloom can determine the success of the entire vintage. Here’s why nutrition at flowering matters, what can go wrong, and how foliar sprays between flowering and veraison provide a reli

In modern viticulture, the foundation of a productive and resilient vineyard begins beneath the surface. Healthy soils, rich in organic matter and thriving microbial life, are not just a medium for vines to anchor their roots—they are a dynamic ecosystem that directly influences vine health, fruit quality, and resilience against climate extremes, pests, and diseases. Understanding and enhancing soil health and nutrient cycling is therefore a critical strategy for sustainable

Cover crops are increasingly used in modern viticulture to enhance sustainability, manage vine growth, and improve grape quality. Why Grow Cover Crops? Key Benefits for Vineyards Cover crops are more than just green cover—they are a strategic tool for vineyard management. Key advantages include: Control of vegetative growth: Reduced shoot growth helps balance the canopy and prevent excessive vigor. Disease reduction: Lower canopy density decreases the risk of fungal disease

Growing premium wine grapes is an art that combines science, passion, and a deep understanding of the land. One of the most critical aspects of this process is soil nutrition. The right nutrients, in the right amounts in the soil can make a significant difference in the quality of the grapes and resultant wine produced. In this post, we will explore the essential elements of soil nutrition, how they affect grape growth, and practical tips for vineyard management. Soil is not