Category: Archived Articles

What Does Sustainable Packaging for Liquid Look Like in 2023?

Cyndi
recycling symbol with bottles

By: Sam Johnson

The process of designing sustainable packaging for liquids is a complex one. Today’s store shelves are lined with glass bottles of wine, spirits, juices, and more — all of which include packaging that may be elegant but is certainly not eco-friendly. For instance, in order to make glass, we need sand, and every year, the world uses 50 billion tons of sand to manufacture glass — a number roughly twice the amount that all the world’s rivers can produce. Moreover, removing this sand from riverbeds and shorelines disrupts ecosystems and leaves communities vulnerable to flooding. Glass is infinitely recyclable, but we make approximately 10 million tons of it every year, and our recycling statistics still have significant room for improvement. According to the most recent statistics from the Environmental Protection Agency, we recycle only 39.8% of wine and liquor bottles and only 15.0% of other glass jars.

  Unfortunately, rigid plastic bottles are not the answer. As a material, plastic has revolutionized the way we do business and the way we live, having become a necessity in everything from our food packaging to our textiles and electronics. But with the raw materials necessary to manufacture glass slowly running out, manufacturers are now seeking ways to make plastic packaging more sustainable.

  The answer to this problem is minimizing waste and reducing the materials needed to package products. Reducing packaging waste means less waste to deal with at the recycling plant or ending up in landfills, resulting in less plastic finding its way back into our environment.

Current Packaging Options for Wine are not Sustainable

  Today, it isn’t easy to imagine a wine industry without glass, cardboard, or plastic packaging. In relation to the broad scope of history, however, these packaging materials happen to be fairly recent inventions.

  In 1869, John Wesley Hyatt treated cellulose from cotton fiber with camphor to invent the first synthetic polymer. While searching for an ivory substitute, he stumbled on a revolutionary material that forever freed manufacturers from natural materials such as stone, wood, metal, bone, or horn. Suddenly, manufacturers could make their own raw materials, which was hailed as a great win for the environment — plastic would save elephants, rhinos, and tortoises from the ravages of human greed, as well as put affordable manufactured goods within reach of all classes.

  Roughly a century later, however, society’s optimism for plastic began fading. People first took note of floating plastic garbage on the ocean’s surface in the 1960s. Now, 8 million pieces of plastic pollution enter our oceans every day, amounting to 12 million tons of plastic waste dumped into the oceans every year. In total, we create 300 million tons of plastic waste each year — over 270 million tons of which end up in our environment after being dumped into landfills and oceans.

  Despite the damage caused by plastic since its introduction to consumer markets over a century ago, recent studies have warned that the environmental impact caused by glass bottles — the primary packaging utilized by the wine industry — is even greater than that caused by plastic ones. According to experts from the University of Southampton who spearheaded one such study, “The environmental impact of glass bottles (new and recycled)…[was] the most [negatively] impactful packaging” for each category of drinks included in the study, “with plastic bottles always [showing to be] the second-most impactful.”

  In essence, the University of Southampton study showed that, while traditional plastic packaging tends to cause a larger environmental impact “at the end of [its] life cycle,” glass bottles cause more harm to the environment overall. This is because glass bottles require more energy to produce and transport since they weigh more than other forms of liquid packaging, which releases greater quantities of carbon emissions at each step of their supply chain.

  To compound this issue, the furnaces required to manufacture glass bottles run 24/7 and, according to AGC Glass Europe, “…cannot be stopped and cooled” so long as they are in operation, which typically lasts 15-18 years. Moreover, along with emitting larger quantities of carbon emissions (CO2), these furnaces can also release greater amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), further contributing to acidification and the formation of smog.

Alternative Packaging Solutions for Wine Have a Long Way to Go

  In light of the costs and environmental impact associated with manufacturing, filling, and shipping glass bottles, wine-makers have increasingly looked to more environmentally-friendly alternatives. Perhaps the most common and popular of these is cardboard, which has given rise to the popularity of boxed wine among eco-conscious consumer markets.

  While both glass and cardboard are considered to be equally recyclable, cardboard used for boxed wine boasts one primary advantage in regard to sustainability: a lower carbon footprint. Additionally, cardboard costs much less than glass bottles to produce and ship and poses far less risk of breaking than glass.

  However, alternative packaging like cardboard for the wine industry is not without its drawbacks. For one, wine cannot be poured directly into a cardboard box — it must be contained within a plastic bag that is then placed in the box. As such, boxed wine cannot age, making it a less appealing option for consumers with a more refined palate or those seeking a bolder taste in their wine. Moreover, the inclusion of plastic bags in packaging for boxed wine inherently makes them a less-sustainable option for both manufacturers and consumers.

  Although there are more environmentally-friendly packaging options available within the wine industry, none currently available are completely sustainable. In order to achieve this desired level of sustainability, manufacturers should look to ways that allow them to lower the base amount of packaging used through a practice known as source reduction.

How Source Reduction Can Make the Wine Industry More Sustainable

  The overall goal of source reduction is to curb waste at the source before it is even created. In fact, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says source reduction is the most promising means to achieve sustainability.

  The main goal of source reduction is to reduce the amount of material used in packaging so that less ends up in landfills or oceans when it’s no longer needed. To do this effectively, forward-thinking manufacturers must examine every stage of their packaging production process, from sourcing materials all the way down through shipping and disposal options after use.

  Source reduction is the first step in any sustainable packaging strategy, and most manufacturers are finding that flexible packaging is the way to make it happen. The amount of plastic required for liquid packaging, for example, is cut drastically by using flexible packs instead of rigid plastic containers or bottles. Reducing the amount of plastic used in packaging means less plastic for consumers to recycle as well as reducing manufacturers’ carbon footprint by using less energy in the production process.

  Source reduction also means ensuring that packaging does not add unnecessary weight or volume to products. Flexible packaging for liquids like wine is far lighter than heavy glass bottles. Less weight equates to less pollution from transportation costs.

  Statistics prove that flexible packaging requires fewer resources and less energy to produce. For example, according to Robbie Fantastic Flexibles, a member of the Flexible Packaging Association, “the manufacturing of 780,000 flexible pouches consumes 87% less coal, 74% less natural gas, and 64% less crude oil in comparison to the manufacturing of rigid packages.”

Innovative and Sustainable Packaging for Liquids

  There are new and more sustainable ways to package liquids that result in less waste and greater ease of use for consumers. The design of rigid plastic and glass bottles has not changed significantly since they hit store shelves a half-century ago. But today, some manufacturers are designing flexible plastic packaging for liquids that will provide circularity throughout their supply chain and the product’s lifecycle.

  For example, one new alternative to consider comes from AeroFlexx in the form of the AeroFlexx Pak. These paks are produced with up to 50% recycled material and include a self-sealing valve, allowing consumers greater ease in dispensing only the amount of product desired at a given time.  

  Unlike traditional glass bottles for wine, these innovative valves do not need to be closed by consumers. When consumers knock a package off the counter, it will not spill. When they drop it onto the floor, it will not splatter, and they can hold an entire package upside down without any components escaping. In addition, products such as these remove the need for additional components in the wine’s packaging — caps, corks, and lids, for example — helping to further reduce waste for both wine-makers and consumers.

  These new flexible packages will allow consumers to use every bit of the product they purchase.

Unlike boxed wine that frequently uses non-recyclable plastic in its containers and dispensers, innovative flexible packaging for wine has the added benefit of being curbside recyclable wherever other similar products are accepted.

  For retailers who ship large quantities of glass bottles and jugs containing wine, flexible packaging will offer a way to transport that product without waste due to breakage. Furthermore, lighter plastic packaging means they pay far less for shipping.

  When forward-thinking manufacturers design flexible packaging for wine with source reduction, sustainability, and recycling in mind, it creates a win/win scenario. These sustainable packaging alternatives require fewer plastics to produce and less energy to ship, saving money in production and transportation, as well as in potentially-wasted product.

  These changes in liquid packaging are not just good for the environment — they leave a positive impact on everyone involved.

About the Author

  Sam Johnson has spent a decade drafting, editing, and managing content across an array of industries including entertainment, technology, environmental, political science, government relations, and more. obtained his MBA from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL, in 2017. After graduation, he consulted with the Office of Technology Transfer at NASA-KSC to help commercialize environmental remediation technology for startups.

Trends in Email Effectiveness

Cyndi

A Five-year Historical Review of Performance Metrics

finger pointing towards a mail icon

By: Susan DeMatei, Founder of WineGlass Marketing

Since 2018, WineGlass Marketing has monitored email responses to help plan and inform our campaigns. (You can find the 2022 report at wineglassmarketing.com/2022-email-benchmark-report.) For this year, we included a look back at five years of data because it is a fantastic opportunity to track the impact of COVID on our email responses. The behavior changes of planned campaigns by wineries and customers’ reactions during COVID and Shelter in Place should be evident by looking for anomalies. This article will review the historical data to compare to 2022 data and trends.

INCREASED FOCUS ON DATABASE GROWTH

  A byproduct of COVID is that we learned that keeping in touch with our customers is essential to our business survival. When the steady stream of new customers off the freeway to our tasting rooms stopped, we found ways to talk to existing customers in our database. We remembered what we learned when that freeway opened again in 2021. We kept adding names and coveting that connection, swearing we would never leave ourselves that vulnerable again. Between 2020 and 2021, the average database size jumped 37% to over 6.5k.

graph showing the email campaigns and list size

  But, we took our feet off the gas because, in 2022, we saw it fall to the lowest point since 2018. Let’s hope that in next year’s benchmark study, we see increased attention in this area and that our databases grow again.

THE AVERAGE MONTHLY CAMPAIGNS PER WINERY ALSO FLUCTUATED

  We interpret this increase as wineries finally started segmenting during COVID because they had the time and resources to look at their data. So, when 2021 came along, it was game on with A/B splits, automated drip campaigns, and segmented offers.

graph showing the average number of email campaigns by month

  We also noted a great deal more “resends” in the data from 2022, showing that more wineries are comfortable with reminding non-openers or non-responders that they’re missing out on a great deal. In 2022, the wineries surveyed reported an average of 5.27 campaigns per month – either completely new campaigns or resends or different segments.

SEASONALITY IS STARTING TO CHANGE

  If we split out volume by month for these five years, we get an idea of the increase in campaigns in 2022 and the seasonal trends. Wineries cluster emails around club shipment times in March and fall harvest and load more holiday emails into the fourth quarter. This trend has been consistent throughout all five years.

  However, in 2022 we saw more emails during the summer. Perhaps this is because of the increased adoption of summer “cold” shipping, or segmentation and testing are planned in the summer months to minimize the impact on crucial selling seasons. But we can say that going “dark” in the hot months is no longer a common practice.

graph showing the open, click, conversion, and bounce rates

OPEN RATE DECREASED, BUT CTR INCREASED

  Open rates have been on a steady decline for the past three years. But don’t worry; this is consistent with any industry trends and has been this way year after year since somebody sent the first email in the early 1990s. Why? Two reasons. First, as consumers, we’re tired of emails. As any of you know, you work hard on that subject line and content to get attention. We must overcome considerable inbox clutter.

  And secondly, there is an inverse relationship with volume. As marketers, emails are cheap, so the ROI is worth it to send a lot of them. When consumers don’t open them, we resend reminders. We get a few more opens, but typically these emails perform worse than the initial email launch, which brings down the overall campaign open rate.

  Sadly, although they clicked to go to the website, the conversion went down (shown on the cart with the orange line and right-hand secondary axis.) This decline is the fault of the website page, not the email. Click-through rates have increased. The emails enticed potential customers to open, read and click, but something happened. Google Analytics provides this data from the website. If wineries are not looking at their visitors’ paths and creating custom landing pages for each email, the most compelling email in wine country may not end with a sale.

  The common question is, “how frequently should we email our customers.” The answer is to send emails as often as possible as long as you can offer compelling content. Customers will tell you when they don’t value your email – they’ll leave.

  Looking at the bounce rates, with all the campaign increases in the past five years, wineries did an excellent job of keeping the segmenting tight and the content on point, as evidenced by the decrease in bounce rate.

graph showing the average email open rates by month

  In sync with our tendency to send more emails in Q1 and Q4 – open rates by month show the inverse. Our customers are more likely to open our emails in Q1, Q2, and Q3 when there is less clutter in their inboxes. Open rates are the lowest in the fourth quarter when the email frequency is highest.

graph showing the click through rates by month

  Click-through rates follow a similar seasonality to our frequency and show a higher CTR with more campaigns. Looking at wineries’ sales, we can confirm that Q1 and Q4 is the online buying season.

AOV AND AVERAGE ORDERS PER CAMPAIGN ARE BACK TO NORMAL

  So, did all this convert to dollars? Sort of. This chart shows the Average Order Value in the blue bars, and the orange line is the average number of orders per campaign. It makes sense that during COVID, we saw a spike in orders (because there was no other way to order) yet a dive in AOV (due to discounts.)

graph showing the orders 5 year trends

  If you combine the relatively equal AOV and average orders per campaign for the past two years with the previous chart that demonstrates a decrease in conversion rate for 2021 and 2022, we see more frequent campaigns and higher prices to counteract the lower conversion. That is one way to compensate but imagine the impact if that conversion rate went up.

  The summary? Email is far from dead or a bad investment, but to combat lowering open and click-through rates, there is little to do about maturing channel fatigue except write the best subject lines you can and create compelling content your targets want to read. We say better content and not better offers because the click-through rate went down when everyone slashed prices and offered steep discounts in 2020. So if you focus on good content and segmentation, your emails will continue to bring you sales.

  Susan DeMatei is the founder of WineGlass Marketing, a full-service direct marketing firm working within the wine industry in Napa, California. Now in its 10th year, the agency offers domestic and international clients assistance with strategy and execution. WineGlass Marketing is located in Napa, California at 707-927-3334 or wineglassmarketing.com   

Why the Results Vary when Grapevine Samples are Submitted for Disease Testing

Cyndi
close-up of grapevines

By: Judit Monis, Ph.D. – Vineyard and Plant Health Consultant

You probably know that there are many options when it comes to laboratory testing services.  It can be confusing to the grower, vineyard manager, and/or nursery staff to decide which laboratory to choose

  I am always asked by clients: “why the results of samples submitted from the same vineyard block yield different results at different laboratories?” There are many different reasons and I will try to clarify some aspects associated with laboratory issues (method/techniquess used) and sample collection that will affect the final disease diagnostic results.    Finally, I will introduce the concept of standardization of diagnostic methods used for the detection of grapevine pathogens. After reading this article, my hope is that you hire a knowledgeable plant pathologist who can determine your best options based on your needs and walks you through the process.

Description of Most Common Laboratory Techniques:

Microbiological Culture: Fungal and bacterial pathogens can be cultured and isolated in specialized media.  However, microorganisms could compete among each other.  Microbe(s) that grow faster will outcompete microbes that grow slower, making the diagnosis of certain bacterial or fungal pathogens difficult.  The diagnosis could be biased or the laboratory may not be able to report the disease causal agent unless sophisticated molecular methods are used in combination with culturing methods. However, in some cases, the identification of the fungal taxonomic family (i.e., species of the Diatripaceae or Botryosphaeriaceae family isolated from a canker) or bacterial genus (Agrobacterium species isolated from a typical gall) may be sufficient to decipher the cause of the problem.  Phytoplasmas (a special type of bacteria that lack cell walls) and viruses cannot be cultured and their identification must be carried out using molecular and serological methods.

  ELISA, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR: ELISA is the abbreviation for “enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay, and consists the binding of a protein (coat protein, in the case of a virus) on a plastic test plate that was coated with specific antibodies.  A positive reaction is seen when there is a change of color in the wells of the test plate (colorimetric enzymatic reaction). ELISA detection is limited to the amount of virus present in the sample, therefore not prone to lab contamination.  During the Coronavirus pandemic you probably heard in the general media talk about antibody tests.  ELISA, although different from the rapid home COVID 19 tests based on immunochromatography, is an antibody test.  PCR, is the abbreviation for polymerase chain reaction (this is a molecular based test).  The technique allows the multiplication nucleic acid from the concentration of pathogen present in the vine. The process is specific, and utilizes copies of small portions of the pathogen’s genome (called primers) to start the copying process. The amplification is repeated many times, with each copy making more copies, so after the completion of an appropriate number of PCR cycles, more than a billion copies of the nucleic acid is produced. For RNA viruses the detection is done using RT-PCR (RT stands for reverse transcription, a molecular way of copying the RNA to produce DNA).  PCR and RT-PCR are sensitive techniques used for the detection of grapevine pathogens.  Quantitative or Real Time PCR is a modification of PCR that can provide the relative quantitation of the pathogen present in a sample (abbreviated as qPCR and qRT-PCR).

  The sensitivity and specificity of the detection of pathogens can be influenced by the season as well as the part of the vine from which samples are collected. While ELISA is generally thought to be less sensitive than RT-PCR, ELISA has a broader spectrum of detection and can detect a range of virus variants. On the other hand, PCR is very specific, this can be an advantage but also a disadvantage.  If the detection is too specific, it could miss the detection of isolates of the same virus even when small changes (mutations) are present.  This is even more true when TaqMan, a type of qPCR that in addition to specific primers uses a specific probe is applied for the detection of viruses in grapevine samples.   This is why running both ELISA and RT-PCR consecutively is recommended for the reliable detection of grapevine viruses, as each method is designed to detect different portions of a virus.   Since Grapevine red blotch virus is a DNA virus, and ELISA is not available, I recommend that PCR is performed to amplify at least two different locations of the viral genome.

Rapid Tests for the Detection of Grapevine red blotch and Grapevine Pinot Gris Viruses

  A single use strip test based on the recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay has been developed for the detection of Grapevine red botch virus (GRBV) and Grapevine Pinot Gris virus (GPGV).  The manufacturer claims that these tests can be performed in the field. However, to obtain reliable results, the assays should be conducted by experienced technicians in a clean laboratory.  If a lay person were to attempt to run this type of assay, the assay instructions must be carefully followed.  The protocol includes many steps that require measuring small quantities of reagents (microliters).   Thus, it is worthwhile to have an experienced laboratory run these tests.  Laboratory personnel are used to running different protocols and are trained to keep the sample and other materials free of contamination.  Another drawback of these rapid tests is that these are only available for two grapevine viruses.  As I have noted in other articles, the symptoms caused by grapevine pathogens can confused.  For instance, a negative GRBV result, may give a false reassurance that the vines in the vineyard are healthy when they could otherwise be infected with leafroll (GLRaVs), Vitiviruses, a combination of these, and/ or bacterial or fungal pathogens.

Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP)

  Like PCR, LAMP is a nucleotide amplification method that uses primers to initiate the copying process of the pathogen’s nucleic acid.  It differs however as the reaction often does not require the extraction of nucleic acid and is performed at a constant temperature (isothermal).  These LAMP assays have been developed in South Africa for the detection of GLRaV-3 and at Cornell University for the detection of GRBV.  Training of the methodology for the detection of GRBV was covered in various sessions by the Napa Valley Vineyard Technical Group.  The technique is claimed to be as or more sensitive than PCR.  Because LAMP assays are very sensitive, it is prone to contamination (i.e., yield false positives).  Like RPA, the operator will need to follow carefully a protocol that requires the measurement of very small volumes of reagents.  The technology also requires the initial investment of laboratory equipment and a clean area to perform the operations. 

Next Generation or High Throughput Sequencing:

The next generation sequencing (NGS) also known as high throughput sequencing (HTS) is a powerful method that allows a laboratory to detect any organism present in a sample.

  When NGS or HTS is applied, the complete sequence of the plant genetic material and its microbiome is obtained.  Generally, during the sample preparation, the pathogens specific sequences are enriched to increase the sensitivity of the assay (for example the lab may just amplify fungal sequences).  The data obtained is analyzed with sophisticated software that is able to analyze the bacterial, fungal, viral, or other microorganisms (beneficial or pathogenic) sequences present in the sample.  The method can provide relative quantitative data, generally expressed in percentages, of each organism found.   The NGS has been widely used in research and has allowed the discovery and characterization of important viruses such as Grapevine red blotch virus and many Vitiviruses. Presently, this technique is being applied commercially to test plant and soil samples for the detection of bacterial and fungal microorganisms.  It is recommended that a plant pathologist with expertise in bacterial, fungal, and/or viral taxonomy be available to associate the presence of the microorganisms found with disease symptoms (or potential disease development).

The Results Obtained from Different Laboratories can be Different

  Frequently, the cause of different testing results at different laboratories can be due to operational

errors.  In my career running plant diagnostic testing labs, I can confidently say that I have seen a lot of things that can go wrong during sample processing. It is not my intention to list them here. The key is that the laboratory has knowledgeable personnel capable of catching the mistake before the results go out to the client (i.e., something does not look right, lets repeat the test or investigate further). A false positive, is the reporting of a sample positive for certain pathogen(s) when it really is not infected.  This can be due to contamination in the lab but also due a mix-up in the field or in the laboratory during the process.  False negatives can also occur, and this can be due to the lack of sensitivity of the assay used, problems with sampling (either in the field or laboratory), and/or when the lab technician made a mistake.

  Let’s assume that everything goes well at the laboratory.  The operator uses the best technical skills and applies good quality assurance and control (QA/QC).  An important factor to take into consideration is the quality and type of sample collected in the vineyard submitted to the lab for testing.  It is known that even when sampling from different portions of the same vine, different results can be obtained. The failure to detect a pathogen that is present in low concentration is due to uneven distribution of certain pathogens in the vine   If your goal is to determine which is the best laboratory for pathogen detection, it is important to send samples  with known infection status to each laboratory.  Further, the collector must be able to prepare cuttings of the same vine material represented equally in samples submitted to each laboratory.

  At the time, there is no accreditation that is specific to grapevine diagnostic testing.  Therefore, each laboratory applies their own testing and sampling protocols. These methods were developed and optimized with positive (infected with the pathogen of choice) and negative controls (not infected with the pathogen of choice).  Additionally, a reputable laboratory should use specific internal controls to determine the quality of their processes. 

  The implementation of an accreditation and certification system for diagnostic laboratories would provide an unbiased evaluation of the laboratory processes.  Standardization of sampling and testing is common in other fields of food and plant biotechnology.  It is surprising that the grapevine industry has not adopted an accreditation system given the losses that pathogens cause to this perennial crop. The standardization of the diagnostic methods used for the detection of grapevine pathogens will provide reliable results to stakeholders.  The future goal of the viticulture industry should be to adopt the accreditation of grapevine diagnostic laboratories.

  Judit Monis, Ph.D. provides specialized services to help growers, vineyard managers, and nursery personnel avoid the propagation and transmission of disease caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses in their vineyard blocks.   Judit (based in California) is fluent in Spanish and is available to consult in all wine grape growing regions of the word.  During the Coronavirus pandemic, you can also schedule virtual vineyard consultations.  Please visit juditmonis.com for information or contact juditmonis@yahoo.com to request a consulting session.

Celebrating Oregon’s Alternative Wines

Cyndi
crowd outside a winery

By: Becky Garrison

Even though Oregon’s pinot noir wines tend to grab the bulk of the headlines, this region produces over 80 grape varieties. Among the most popular grapes grown include chardonnay, gamay noir, pinot gris, riesling, rosé, sauvignon blanc, syrah, tempranillo and zinfandel.

The Launch of the Alt. Wine Fest

  In 2019, Mallory Smith and Martin Skegg launched the Alt. Wine Fest in Oregon’s Willamette Valley as a vehicle to showcase the full range of Oregon’s bounty. Described as “Oregon’s Other Wine Festival,” the forthcoming 2023 festival has expanded to include 35 winemakers pouring over a hundred wines. Other offerings include tacos, lawn games and a DJ. 

  The inspiration for this festival stemmed from Smith’s work at a bottle shop in northeast Portland, Oregon. She found that those customers asking for Oregon pinot noir were mostly from out of town. When she introduced non-pinot noir varieties to locals, they would be excited and surprised that those things even existed. On a similar note, they noticed that even people who worked in the wine industry in Oregon didn’t know that there were a lot of other grapes grown right in their backyard.

  As Smith reflects, “We knew of many producers making ‘alt’ wines, but because we ran in those circles we didn’t realize how much it was an untapped market. So, the Alt. Wine Fest was not only an opportunity to highlight a lot of smaller producers and showcase underdog grapes, but also to give people the firsthand opportunity to discover, taste and explore these wines.”

  They first launched the festival at the Old Schoolhouse, a wedding venue located in the heart of the Willamette Valley wine region in Newberg, Oregon. The owner and her family helped them get this festival off the ground, and this sold-out event exceeded their expectations.

  When reflecting on the success of their inaugural festival, Smith points to a shift in the consumer market for Oregon wines. “Even though there are some corners of the industry that still believe anything other than pinot is a sideshow, there has been a shift in the last few years. People are more interested in the possibilities of these other grapes and the production of non-pinot wines has been slowly increasing. Generally, we had good support from the industry, and the likes of the Willamette Valley Wineries Association were enthusiastic about the event.”

  Following a two-year pause due to COVID, they re-launched this festival. As they knew they needed to expand to accommodate the growing interest in non-pinot wines, they sought a larger venue. So, they moved to Abbey Road Farm, a winery, bed & breakfast and event space in Oregon’s Yamhill Valley. They kept the same formula but had more people and winemakers. This event sold out again. “It was good to see that people still had the same enthusiasm for the wines as before the pandemic,” Smith noted.

  Moving forward, they hope to keep growing the event as best they can. However, they’re taking it slow to maintain the festival’s heart and soul. Smith notes, “This year, we may have a couple more winemakers, but the attendance will be about the same, as we don’t want it to get too crowded. We’re looking at the possibility of smaller side events. Maybe something educational, as that is one thing people have asked for, or dinners with winemakers or a tasting party.”

Winemakers Speak to Their Experience at the Alt. Wine Festival

  For Brianne Day, owner and winemaker of Day Wines (Dundee, Oregon), participating in the Alt. Wine Festival was a natural fit, given she produces 24 varieties of wine along with two pinot blends and two single vineyard pinot noirs. In addition to highlighting the range and bounty of what Oregon is capable of, she appreciates that most of the producers there have fun with their wines and brands with a more adventurous and creative take on winemaking and wine business creation. “It’s a fun and exciting subset of the industry to be a part of, and I enjoy being with peers who see it that way as well,” she states.

  Day does not grow any fruits and sources from vineyards in the Columbia River Gorge, around the Willamette Valley and the Applegate Valley. Most of the varieties she purchases were planted years ago by growers who wanted to see other kinds of wine made in Oregon. Sometimes growers asked her what she would like to have grown for her. So far, she’s asked for more Italian varieties in southern Oregon. One grower planted the first Oregon Nero d’Avola, and another planted the first Oregon Zibibbo.

  In her experience, these wines are pretty easy to make and bring to market. “The varieties grow well and ripen well in Oregon and in many ways are less challenging than making pinot.”

  As non-pinot fruits are not as readily available to her as pinots, she cannot produce as many of these wines, as she can to meet the demands of the U.S. wine-buying market that appreciates adventurous and creative wines. Some of her wines are only available for sale in the winery because they are in such high demand, and she cannot make large quantities of them. “My biggest challenge is just keeping my distributors happy with what I can supply and having consumers be a little disappointed when we sell out of one of their favorites,” Day observes.

  Among the non-pinots wines Melaney Schmidt and Malia Myers of Landmass Wines (Cascade Locks, Oregon) produce include chenin blanc, tempranillo, grenache and gruner veltliner. They head to the Rogue Valley for their warm-climate fruit, and for cool-climate fruit, they source from the Columbia River Gorge. Since their brand is still young, they feel they have the flexibility to work with whatever fruit interests them.

  They find freedom in making a wine that hasn’t been examined to the point of exhaustion. As Schmidt observes, “You can work with another varietal and steer it in any direction that suits you. If I want to make a juicy, fruit-forward rosé of tempranillo, there is an openness from the consumer because there aren’t any preconceived thoughts about what winemaking style I ‘should’ adhere to.” 

  In their estimation, the  Alt. Wine Fest provided them with a great forum to see and taste how others approach these esoteric varietals. “The event was a huge success and seeing so many people there eager to try new wines was incredible. I’m looking forward to doing it again!” Schmidt exclaims.

The Future of Alt. Wines in the Willamette Valley

  In particular, Oregon’s famed Willamette Valley has seen a rise in vineyards planting non-pinot grapes. According to Smith, producers have run into pinot fatigue when trying to sell into the broader U.S. market, and buyers are interested in different varieties. “It’s not controversial to say that the market is saturated with pinot, and there are already too many mediocre $50 pinots kicking around,” she adds.

  Also, not every site is ideally suited for growing pinot noir grapes. As Smith states, “The valley is big, and there should be more exploration of what else works. There are plenty of winemakers who are vehement that trying to imitate Burgundy was a misstep and that the region has far more potential with other grapes.”

  Furthermore, Smith predicts that climate change will make a difference. “Predictions show that within the next couple of decades, things will become very uncomfortable for pinot in the valley, so winemakers will have to look to other grapes. There are perhaps 90ish different varieties grown in Oregon, but many thousands more are available. Why not give some of those a try?”

  The 2023 Alt. Wine Fest will be held on July 16, 2023, with information available on their website at www.altwinefest.com.

Neal Family Vineyards Leads the Way as The First Regenerative Organic Certificated® Winery in Napa Valley

Cyndi
man holding a shovel

By: Gerald Dlubala

The Neal Family Vineyards in Napa Valley have always been known as prestigious, organically farmed vineyards. And now, going back to their beginnings over 50 years ago, they’ve shown the world what can be accomplished through mindful, organic farming methods and practices. Recently named the first Regenerative Organic Certified® vineyard in Napa Valley, the Neal Family Vineyard Estates becomes one of only five Regenerative Organic Certified® vineyard estates in the world as recognized by the Regenerative Organic Alliance.

  Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) is an agricultural certification for food, fiber and personal care ingredients. ROC was initially created to address our climate crisis, increased soil degradation and biodiversity loss while also addressing factory farming and fractured rural economies on a global scale. At its core, the certification is based and awarded on the farmer’s ability to adopt and use agricultural techniques that ensure healthy soil, provide ethical and humane treatment of animals and guarantee fairness for all farm employees and workers. There are no gray areas or exceptions within the mandates of the Regenerative Organic Alliance, established in 2018 and now recognized as the highest level of certification available. If a farm fails an inspection, there is a three-year waiting period to try again. One simple mistake or misuse of materials can cause a farm to start from scratch in the certification process.

Organic from Their Beginnings, Neal Family Vineyards Became Pioneers in Grape Growing Excellence

  All four of the Neal Family Winery’s estate vineyards were certified organic by the California Certified Organic Farmers Foundation (CCOF) in 2009, followed by a biodynamic farming certification through Demeter Biodynamic Federation in 2021. In 2022, Patagonia’s Regenerative Organic Alliance added the coveted Regenerative Organic Certified® label to the Neal Family Vineyards after successfully meeting the stringent certification standards.

  “It was really an interesting and eye-opening experience,” said Mark Neal, vintner, founder and owner of Neal Family Vineyards. “I’ve been raised in an organic farming environment going as far back as 1984, so based on the length of service, number of years we’ve been certified organic, and the successful farming techniques we’ve always used, I truly believed that gaining the Regenerative Organic Certification was within our reach. Sometimes if you’re just starting in organic farming, it can be a lot of work to bring your soils back to an acceptable condition. Fortunately, being organically certified in 2009, our soil was already very healthy and pretty much up to standard, so there wasn’t much more that we had to do. It was pretty simple to check those boxes. Additionally, with our chickens, cattle and goats, we met the corresponding acceptable standards for their use, care and overall management.”

  But Neal told The Grapevine Magazine that the new and intriguing part of this certification was the component of worker and employee fairness. “It’s obviously important, but maybe hasn’t been formally addressed as part of an official certification process before, and I honestly wasn’t sure where it would lead,” said Neal. “It was a two-day process of interviews that included all of our workers, from the tractor drivers and operators up to our supervisors, many of whom are already considered generational or long-term employees because of their family histories of involvement and acquired quality skillsets within our vineyard operations in full-time, part-time and seasonal capacities.”

  Neal said that while farms may find workers with organic or biodynamic farming experience, it’s more about finding that experience that coincides with the techniques, equipment and way of under-the-vine organic farming practices that the Neal Family Vineyards uses.

  “Finding those workers can be hard, so I can see how caring for the overall wellness, safety and wellbeing of employees makes this a top-shelf certification that is more well-rounded, relatable and understandable to consumers,” said Neal. “Gaining the Regenerative Organic Certification demonstrates that a vineyard is all-encompassing in its operations and going above and beyond the organic process that is concerned mostly with the soil and land. We’re taking care of all components and contributors to our operation, including the employees, their wellness and their safety. And it’s very important to me to serve as a steward to Mother Earth and implement practices and policies that demonstrate our commitment to the three pillars included in the Regenerative Organic Certification mandates.”

  Neal tells The Grapevine Magazine that the people aspect of the certification proves that it takes special people to want to work in a farm environment and in the fields. “In our line of work, everyone wants to talk about the harvest,” said Neal. “But if you really think about it, although harvest is a hectic time, it’s also singularly focused on one goal for the entire vineyard. For me, all of the other tasks that coincide from budbreak through June and on, like suckering, planting, cultivation and more, demand great focus, impeccable timing and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done on time. Due to research, farming configurations have changed over the years, but the necessary related tasks can still be the most manual, strenuous tasks in the vineyard. Having and retaining quality people with specialized skillsets to take up the bulk of these person-hours is critical.”

  Neal said the cover crops in his vineyards are generally half permanent and half cultivated, depending on the water capacity of the soil in that specific area. The areas that hold less water get cultivated, while those holding more water may be left to grow and remove or draw out the water naturally.

  “It’s decisions like these that also show the tradeoff with certifications,” said Neal. “Particular types of soils allow for different methods. But if you leave more cover crops, you may have to irrigate more. When you turn that irrigation pump on, do you really know where the power is coming from to operate the pump? Is it coal, natural gas, wind, solar or hydrogen? As a user, you may never know what the real impact of the environment is in some situations.”

Helping Others through Leadership and Mentoring

  “I love being a leader in soil health and generational farming,” said Neal. “We are the largest organic farmer and one of the largest biodynamic farmers in Napa Valley. But I wasn’t aware of how few farms were under the certified organic label until I applied. Currently, only six to seven percent of Napa wineries are certified organic, and I desperately want that rate to increase and gain more of a foothold in our region. For the doubters out there, our experience spans more than 50 years, and I believe that I’ve shown that organic and biodynamic farming practices not only work in Napa, but they work well and present legitimate, beneficial choices to current vineyard owners. Organic options are so much more plentiful and available now that it’s much easier to achieve organic certification than just a few years ago. And in some cases, it’s actually more economical.”

  Neal backs up these comments with his offer to help other farmers through discussions, seminars and through Jack Neal & Son Vineyard Management Services.

  “I want to continue promoting soil health,” said Neal. “I want other farmers to know and realize everything they need is right there in front of them, from Mother Earth. In some instances, it’s even more cost-efficient to go organically. I currently participate in seminars regarding soil health and certified organic growing. My advice is to not leave any gray areas and get your farms certified. It’s no longer enough just to say that you’re growing organically. Get certified and remove any doubt. I want to see Napa Valley grow in organically certified farms, and I’m currently consulting with some of the biggest vineyards in the area to help them be successful. The previous higher cost of going organic is not as much of a hindrance anymore, especially when considering things like the cost of diesel fuel.”

  Neal told The Grapevine Magazine that the decision to grow organically certified is the simple yet critical decision between farming for now versus generational farming with proper soil care.

  “Honestly,” said Neal, “You can’t farm generationally if you’re abusing the soil with increased herbicides and fertilizer use. Why constantly pour more insecticides into the soil and then combat that with extra fertilizers that systematically destroy the very soil you need? Organic alternatives are readily available, so there’s no excuse not to find the one that works for you. With all of the options available now, growing organic is achievable and the right thing to do, and I’m excited to work with those that decide to do so. You’ll create better products, gain wider acceptance and most importantly, preserve our earth.”

  Neal hopes to start a movement in the Napa region, helping farmers make changes that matter. He’s shown that after 56 years of organic farming practices, his methods can be very successful in the Napa region, and he is looking to be a leader in growing the number of farmers that move to organic growing methods. That movement started with Neal now working with major wineries in the region to convert their land to organic growing methods.

The Value of Regenerative Organic Certification to Neal and Napa Valley

  Neal said the all-encompassing aspect of the Regenerative Organic Certification most moves him. “The practice of renewing and maintaining the health of the soil and land, ensuring proper care and management of the animals and of course taking care of the people that help you touch on the most important buttons of any undertaking,” said Neal. “This certification addresses everything related to our future. ROC presents a well-rounded organizational picture that gives the holder a prestigious place worldwide. It’s the highest mark we, as farmers, can achieve, and honestly, I’m honored to be a leader here in Napa, one of the most prestigious grape-growing parts of the world. I was raised with organic farming in my blood, pushing my dad to get our vineyards officially certified even when we were already doing everything right and farming organically from the start. I wanted to remove any doubt, so we can say that we’re not just farming organically; we’re certified in farming organically.”

  More than anything else, Neal wants you to know that you can do it too.

For questions, consultation, or to schedule a visit, go to www.nealvineyards.com

Best Options & Innovations for Tow-able Vineyard Equipment

Cyndi
man towing vineyard

By: Alyssa L. Ochs

One of the most critical pieces of equipment in a vineyard is the tractor because it can tow many different types of equipment used for various purposes. Vineyard owners must evaluate specific towing considerations to ensure a good fit with the tractor and for safety and efficiency purposes. Meanwhile, the towable equipment you choose can significantly impact grape yields and vineyard health.

  To guide vineyard owners in the right direction, industry experts weigh in on choosing the best towable equipment and share new updates to this classic equipment that we can look forward to in the future.

Types of Equipment Towed in a Vineyard

  The concept of towing equipment in an agricultural setting is nothing new, yet many different vineyard tasks can be accomplished by the simple act of towing. A tow-behind grape harvester is used to pull grapes from the vines, while a tow-behind mulch spreader clears away branches and vines while helping to improve soil and control weeds. There are tow-behind tillers used to prepare and improve the soil while improving water penetration. Tow-behind sprayers help manage weeds, control pests and fight disease.

  Another type of tow-behind equipment common in the vineyard is a fertilizer spreader to supply nutrition to growing vines. Tow-behind mowers remove weeds that get in the way of vine growth, and tow-behind vine trimmers control growth on rough land areas and along fence lines and roadsides. Many vineyards also use trailers that are towed as carrying bins to haul away grapes or debris.

Benefits of Tow-Behind Equipment

  Aside from being tremendously versatile and durable, tow-behind equipment offers many benefits in a vineyard. These types of equipment are often less expensive than self-powered options and are less complicated to maintain and repair. Towable equipment is a good option in fields with steep slopes because it gives the operator more control and is designed to be narrower and maneuver through rows.

  The equipment can be pulled by different kinds of vehicles, not just tractors. For example, a tow-behind tiller or sprayer could be pulled behind an ATV, UTV or mower. Modern versions of these products have more power than you might expect and can help a vineyard save time and money due to the reduced strain on human labor.

  Of course, this is a diverse industry, and each type of towable equipment has its own unique set of benefits and applications. For example, A1 Mist Sprayers has a robust mist sprayer lineup that can be used both in residential and rural applications.

  “Besides our impressive compact footprint, the flexibility our lineup provides for the end user, regardless of available transportation, acreage size or vineyard, is truly unmatched,” Jon Kulzer, A1 Mist Sprayer division manager, told The Grapevine. “We have engine-driven options in a variety of sizes that can be easily transported through the vineyard on the back of an ATV, UTV or even commercial vehicle. If none of these options are available to you, then no problem. Our tractor, PTO-driven units can work great in a vineyard setting as well. Lucky for you, A1 Mist Sprayers are unique in their own ways and features universal parts that can be replaced or upgraded as time goes on.”

How to Choose Towable Equipment

  When it’s time to invest in new equipment or upgrade a current fleet, there are certain towing considerations to keep in mind. Vineyard owners need to evaluate the vehicle size, towing capacity, connection mechanism and how much horsepower is required. The terrain of the vineyard is a consideration because hills and steep slopes may require special equipment. Tow-behind equipment will need to fit well between the rows of grapevines, handle the occasional tight turning radius and avoid bumping into vines to cause damage. Based on the size of the vineyard and a business’ budget, renting towable equipment or buying used equipment rather than splurging on shiny, brand-new machines may make more sense.

  Paul J. Licata, the owner and president of BDi Machinery Sales, Inc., told The Grapevine Magazine that it is important to know the tractor specifications and technical information. These details include the tractor horsepower, PTO horsepower, gallons-per-minute flow rate, how many hydraulic remotes it has, tractor weight and overall tractor width, length and height.

  “The selection or options of tow-behind equipment can be dependent on the vineyard’s tractor capabilities, or specs,” said Licata. “As an example, the size of the sprayer being considered has tractor PTO HP requirements, as well you need to know 3-PT hitch lift capacity and towing capacity. For both sprayers and cultivation tools that are tow-behind, a single-row or single-sided piece has one set of specs, while a multi-row sprayer or cultivator has different requirements.”

  Licata said that frequently, bigger is better for equipment. However, he said that a vineyard must consider and balance the costs of running and operating a larger tractor with the fuel consumption necessary for larger models and two-sided equipment.

  “The operator of the tow-behind equipment is very important as well of course,” Licata added. “The same operator knows the tractor and equipment, but if you are switching or have different operators, a single-sided machine can be much easier for an operator who may not be doing the task every time.”

  Kulzer from A1 Mist Sprayers said that when it comes time to invest in a mist sprayer, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first question to ask yourself is what your current transportation setup is.

  “Depending on what type of transportation you have readily available, this can help us determine which unit would be best for your situation,” Kulzer said. “Overall unit size and full-tank weight of the mist sprayer is very important to take into consideration. Next, what is your idea spraying setup for vineyard rows? Will you require a volute that can mist two rows at once, or can you get by with a setup for one row at a time? Ultimately, answering this question will help us choose which type of volute would work most effectively for your operation. Lastly, what would be the desired distance you would need for optimal coverage? Since not all vineyards are created equal, some would require larger mist sprayers that have the capability to mist up to 160+ feet. Thinking about these considerations will help narrow down the most ideal A1 Mist Sprayer for you and your vineyard.”

Care and Maintenance of Towable Equipment

  Licata from BDi Machinery said the three components to trouble-free operation in the vineyard are the tractor, the operator and the piece of equipment. Mistakes can happen, and once learned from, making adjustments are key to correct and efficient operation. 

  Licata recommends studying and reading the owners’ manuals for new equipment so that you understand the setup, servicing, maintenance, fluid specs and overall setup of infield parameters for the potential adjustments to specific applications. He also recommends paying attention to the speed of the tractor and maintenance needs. Going either too slow or too fast can be problematic, so it’s crucial to operate the machine at the correct speed for its application. Meanwhile, all equipment requires maintenance on a regular basis. 

  “Bearings and fittings need to be lubed, and belts need to be checked and adjusted,” Licata said. “Cleaning and removal of foreign debris allows for equipment longevity and long-term, trouble-free operation.”

  Licata said that these days, most vineyards are servicing and maintaining their equipment onsite at the vineyard. Therefore, it is essential to have all the owner manuals and maintenance schedules from the manufacturer on hand.

  “Vineyards should have an in-season and pre-season maintenance program that is followed strictly,” Licata said. “Waiting until the piece of equipment needs to be used or breaks is not the time to find out that something is broken due to poor maintenance practices. Following the manufacturer’s specifications for fluids is extremely important, so you’ll need to know the exact oil or fluid viscosity, mineral or synthetic based, adjustments and torquing specs.”

  Kulzer from A1 Mist Sprayers said that the most common mistake his company sees vineyards make is end users not spraying with the wind or spraying on a day with high wind speed.

  “Not spraying with the wind greatly impacts your ability to provide optimal coverage on your vines, which can lead them vulnerable to many pests and diseases,” he said. “Additionally, spraying on a day that has high wind speed could lead to potential damage to crops and create possible health related issues for both animals and humans. It is very important to follow these two tips when utilizing a mist sprayer.”

Updates and Innovations with Vineyard Towing

  We also asked our industry experts about new technologies and innovations in the world of towable vineyard equipment. Licata from BDi Machinery pointed to the CIMA EPA 2.0 System

(Delivery Proportional to Advance) that works with the full range of new CIMA low-volume pneumatic sprayers. When decreasing the forward speed, the system automatically reduces the quantity delivered to improve spraying quantity accuracy. When increasing the forward speed, it increases the quantity delivered.

  “This system avoids product waste and assures treatment effectiveness, a great cost-saving and a reduction on the environmental impact,” Licata said. “Easy programming is guaranteed, as it is possible to save and manage up to 15 programs by entering the operation parameters.”

  Licata also mentioned the OLMI Air impulse de-leafers that can be implemented multiple times during the growing season and are the pinnacle of leaf-removal technology.

  “The machine is air-powered through a compressor to multi-diffusers that are rotating,” he explained. “The pneumatic machine shatters leaves to remove them from the canopy, as opposed to previous technologies that pull the leaves. Trials have shown traditional leaf pullers remove about 50 to 60 percent with control, while the air impulse de-leafer removes targeted leaves at 100 percent with control.”

  The Rinieri Finger is another piece of machinery that Licata said is innovative in this industry. This weeder cultivator allows farmers to eliminate or reduce spraying by using this machine for organic weed control. 

  “The new range of Rinieri finger weeders is for fast, mechanical weeding, up to six miles per hour, with the Bio-disc, which breaks the ground near the plants and then the Bio-Star with rubber spokes for inter-row processing.”

  When asked about innovative features regarding sprayers for vineyards, Kulzer from A1 Mist Sprayers said one of the most prominent statements he hears from the company’s customer base is that the flexibility to utilize these mist sprayers for multiple applications is incomparable.

  “We think end users are becoming more prudent and looking for more compact, user-friendly mist sprayers that do not require a lot of space or downtime,” Kulzer said. “Moreso, end users are always looking for flexibility to utilize their mist sprayers for multiple applications outside of vineyard spraying. Several A1 Mist Sprayers feature an exclusive backflush system that allows for the end user to utilize the mist sprayer for a variety of spraying applications that requires different types of chemicals. All units have been designed to offer versatility to adapt to your spraying needs.”

The Arsenal of Science

Cyndi

Vineyards Require an Army of Protection from Disease, Fungi and Insect Pests 

green and red plant crop

By: Cheryl Gray

Making wine is a science like no other, a science that comes with the ominous responsibility to guard winery crops against disease and fungi. Left unchecked, these vineyard enemies can wreak havoc from grape to root. 

  Companies that know the science behind how disease and fungi infiltrate vineyards strive to offer the latest defenses that are both effective and environmentally friendly.

  Among the industry leaders is BioSafe Systems, a family-owned company headquartered in Connecticut that has been in business for 25 years. BioSafe specializes in providing advanced scientific solutions that offer products that focus on everything from vineyard crop protection to winery sanitation. As the company’s name implies, BioSafe offers products built upon sustainable chemistries for the agriculture industry and considers itself a branded leader in research, manufacturing and applications for this market. The aim is to stay ahead of diseases and fungi that endanger grape crops by constantly developing innovative formulas that offer sustainable ways to protect a winery’s investment.

  Dr. Jodi Creasap Gee is a field research and development project manager for BioSafe Systems and has an extensive background in the science of how to protect vineyards from the destruction caused by disease and fungi. Dr. Creasap Gee also serves as a technical sales representative for the company’s northeastern division and assists growers in recognizing what they are battling and how best to do it using BioSafe Systems products.

  “Pathogens consistently challenge vineyard managers across the United States, making quality fruit production a daunting task. Powdery mildew, downy mildew, Botrytis, black rot and Phomopsis are well-known troublemakers. Extra rain, sour rot and spotted wing drosophila (SWD) infestations are an unfortunate, yet not unrealistic, combination that can really burden your crop. Luckily, BioSafe Systems has several products that can be included in your regular spray program to keep clusters clean for harvest.

  First and foremost, OxiDate® 5.0, our peroxyacetic acid product, packs the biggest punch with broad-spectrum activity on fungi and bacteria by destroying their cell walls. Disinfesting the surfaces of leaves and clusters with OxiDate 5.0, combined with a product with residual activity, can keep clusters clean and protected throughout the season.”

  Dr. Creasap Gee points out how products from BioSafe Systems readily tackle diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, sour rot and black rot. She adds that they can also accommodate a number of grape varieties.

  “I’d like to note that OxiDate 5.0 can be used on concords and hybrid varieties with concord parentage that are sensitive to sulfur. Finally, OxiDate 5.0 leaves no residue on the leaves or clusters, so vines and clusters can be sprayed in the morning on the day of harvest without any residue concerns for processing.

  Another material that controls powdery and downy mildews in vineyards is PerCarb®, sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate, which does have some residual activity. First, the hydrogen peroxide component damages pathogens’ cells on contact, leading to immediate cell death. The residual sodium carbonate prevents the development of fungal mycelium and spores for up to seven days post-application. Apply PerCarb early in the season to reduce fungal inoculum levels, then follow up with your regular fungicide program consistently. Rotating OxiDate 5.0 and PerCarb can keep vines and clusters clean throughout the season, especially during the immediate post-bloom timeframe.”

  Biosafe Systems products also effectively ward off certain insects that can adversely affect vineyard health. Independent research, Dr. Creasap Gee says, shows that PAA products, such as Biosafe Systems’ Oxidate 5.0, can reduce populations of spotted wing drosophila by burning their eggs’ breathing tubes.

  “Reducing desirable yeasts on the surface of the berries will deprive the spotted wing drosophila of their food source and prohibits the yeasts from breaking down the insecticide, increasing insecticide longevity. 

  For grape berry moth control, two of our materials have shown promising results: AzaGuard® and BT NOW®. AzaGuard, BioSafe’s azadirachtin product, is an insect growth inhibitor, meaning it prevents the larva from transitioning into the next stage, thus stopping the pest in its tracks. BT NOW disrupts caterpillar digestion when lepidoptera pests consume the Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki (Btk) bacteria in this product. This strain of bacteria contains ‘cry toxins’ that bind to specific receptors in the insect’s gut, paralyzing certain digestive functions, leading to insect death.”

  The ravaging effects of insects on vineyards are the focus of Pacific Biocontrol Corporation. Based in Vancouver, Washington, the company has been in business for nearly 40 years. It touts itself as among the first in its industry to champion the science of manipulating naturally occurring chemicals known as pheromones. Pheromones are what insects use to mate. 

  The science behind the products of Pacific Biocontrol Corporation zeroes in on disrupting the mating process. As a result, the products prevent targeted insects from multiplying and taking over a vineyard. By increasing the use of its scientific formulas throughout the viticulture industry, PBC is working toward an end result to boost efficacy while at the same time decreasing costs to grape growers.

  One of the experts at Pacific Biocontrol Corporation is Jeannine Lowrimore, a technical sales representative who has been with the company since 2014. Lowrimore has more than two decades of pheromone experience and a Bachelor of Science degree in entomology from UC Davis. Addressing customer needs, Lowrimore says, is a priority.

  “Providing excellent customer service while connecting with my customers is a favorite part of my business.”

  Pacific Biocontrol Corporation has a wide-ranging pheromone product portfolio designed to protect vineyards, fruit and nut orchards from pests. One of its products is ISOMATE® VMB, which Lowrimore says disrupts insect mating by saturating the field with a synthetic pheromone formulation. The treatment, she says, keeps males from finding females, which means less mating and fewer insect eggs. Repeating the process through a well-managed mating disruption program can result in a long-term population decline of that pest, a cost-savings to vineyards. 

  ISOMATE® VMB is OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listed and CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) approved. Lowrimore adds that products manufactured by Pacific Biocontrol Corporation are non-toxic and environmentally safe. When used as part of an integrated pest management program, ISOMATE® can control pest populations while conserving beneficial species.

  Moving on, there is the family-owned Inland Desert Nursery in Washington for vineyards looking to plant new vines. The nursery business is here to supply clean, healthy grapevines to vineyards across North America. The company touts an impressive 150-plus acres of newly planted and well-maintained WSDA Registered (Washington State Department of Agriculture) rootstock and scion mother blocks. Ryan Wells is sales director for the Inland Desert Nursery. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture from Washington State University and has some 25 years in the viticulture industry.

  “Inland Desert Nursery is a certified grapevine nursery so our main crop is actually the cutting material during the dormant season. The cuttings are of higher quality and propagate much better when our grapevine canopy is managed during the growing season in a way that a typical grower would farm their vineyard to obtain the highest quality fruit possible.”

  It is not only what Inland Desert Nursery provides but also how it protects its newly-planted cuttings from disease and fungi. Wells details what the company describes as an aggressive process.  

  “We use a preventative spray program in our vineyards that consists of sulfur and fungicides. Powdery mildew is really the only disease pressure we have in Washington state. Botrytis and sour rot can sometimes be problems in certain years if we have significant rainfall after the onset of verasion. Our spray program is mainly for powdery mildew prevention and starts when shoot growth is around four to six inches in growth. 

  We pay close attention to the fungicide mode of action and rotate fungicides through the season to avoid disease resistance. Sulfur is added to our tank mixtures for every spray because sulfur is a very good mildew eradicant. The only time we do not include sulfur is if the weather is too hot (90+ Fahrenheit). Eastern Washington is a very dry, desert-like climate, and overall mildew pressure is usually much lower than in other growing regions.

  In addition to our mildew preventative spray program, we also make sure the canopy is not too congested by doing shoot thinning in the early spring, ideally when shoot growth is between 10 to 12 inches long. Later in the season, we will also do some leaf removal if necessary to ‘open up’ the canopy. This allows for dappled sunlight on the fruit which increases overall fruit quality and further helps to prevent powdery mildew on the fruit clusters. We do leaf removal and stripping either by hand labor or with a machine. Growers in Washington typically only do leaf removal on the east side of vines, for rows running north and south, because there is too much risk of sunburn to the clusters if leaves are removed on the west side of canopy from the intense afternoon sun.” 

  Whether working with new or established vineyard plants, methods to protect against disease, fungi and insect pests are based on science. Experts in the industry can help growers know what works best for their plants and grapes.

Hidden Vineyards Around the Globe

Cyndi

By: Hanifa Sekandi

As we cycle into another year, we often think about the year we just endured, years past and what may be in the future. The notion of “Are you living your life?” has a strong presence during this introspective time. Also, are you holding yourself back? Are you living a life full of moments you can look back at and cherish? Travel is a wonderful way to experience life. It is during our travels that we collect enriching moments. If you are fortunate enough to travel, you understand the value of experiencing a new place. Is it too late to explore? Never! There are hidden vineyards around the globe waiting to enchant you. Viticulture is more than just a beautiful bottle of wine. It is an opportunity for you to explore, to see all that this life can be. There is something still waiting for you to uncover. Perhaps in the coming year, you will find yourself in a land unknown at one of these hidden vineyards, capturing a moment of a lifetime.

  Dorothy realized on the Yellow Brick Road that there is “no place like home.” Sometimes that hidden gem is closer than one believes. There could be a beautiful vineyard in North America you have yet to discover. Other times, we must push our limits, dive into the unknown and travel to foreign lands where unseen vineyards thrive. The world of viticulture is as complex as the vines that grow. It gives as much to life as it is given. More importantly, it is the hands that toil the land. It is the winemakers who should be revered. 

Hidden in New York

  Many people forget that New York is more than Time Square or the Statue of Liberty. Indeed, New York is a city that never sleeps at night, has Broadway shows and is filled with people rushing to catch a train somewhere. If you are visiting this state, you should consider escaping the theatrical atmosphere of the city and escaping to North Fork, New York. Just east of Manhattan, North Fork is situated on the North Shore of Long Island. This picturesque breath of fresh air is home to 36 wineries, plush apple orchards and potato farms. Here you can sip on a premium selection of wines, cabernet franc, merlot and sauvignon blanc. Many wineries offer an opportunity for wine tasting so that you can experience quite a few wines from different vineyards. Who would have thought that a northern Napa Valley-like place exists so close to chaos? Few, unless you are a viticulture expert, and so a visit to one of these wineries is a wonderful opportunity.

  In 1985, North Fork of Long Island AVA was created to preserve and continue this growing wine community. This is an important tourism infrastructure that allows this shoreside’s economy to thrive. There are many worthwhile vineyards to visit here, most notably Kontokosta Winery. It is the stunning views from this vineyard that give you a breathtaking glimpse of Long Island Sound. It is easy to feel like you have found yourself in a world that seems to exist on its own as you stroll this vineyard or find yourself taking in the expansive views while sitting on the beautiful terrace. This family-owned farm/vineyard is known for its award-winning wines. Its 2019 Sauvignon Blanc won GOLD at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, and its 2018 Anemometer White also won GOLD in 2021 at the same competition. They have continued to impress, which is apparent with the numerous awards they have been awarded. The family commitment to sustainability and being hands-on during every stage of the process gives way to exceptional vintages.

Small but Mighty Moldova

  This is one of the unlikely places in the world where you would look for good wine, let alone rare or exquisite wine. Moldova is not a country many think of when considering vineyards or wine regions. As they say, gems are only found by those who seek them. Here, there are indeed decadent red and white wines and vineyards that carry stories of the past. The beauty of wine is that you learn more than just about wine. You learn that winemaking and its production hold different meanings in the country and region of origin.

Winemaking in Moldova has ancient roots from the Neolithic Period. As with many wine regions, the art of winemaking came from settlers to the land who brought with them their winemaking skills. First, settlers from Greece came with the asset of fermentation and, later the Romans’ winemaking expertise. The business of making wine and turning vineyards into a profit-turning endeavor began in the Middle Ages with senior Moldovan servants. Like many alcoholic beverages, only those of high standing or prestige in society were privy to the best bottles made.

  Moldovan vineyards are in Balti, Valul lui Traian, Codru and Stefan Voda. A vineyard considered a hidden gem is the award-winning Purcari winery, established in 1827. The favorable weather conditions in this wine region have been likened to the Bordeaux region. Both the climate and rubidium-rich soil carry similarities, leading many to conclude why the French began cultivating wine in this region. When Russian Emperor Nicholas I awarded the Pucari winery the prestigious honor of the exclusive winery in Bessarabia, it was a great shift that allowed this winery and its wines to be experienced abroad. In 1878, the Negru de Purcari won gold at the Paris World Expo. Today, this winery is thriving, and its wines are exported to over 25 markets. Yes, you can find a bottle of their high-quality wines if you live in one of the markets. But a visit to this winery situated in scenery will take you back in time and take your breath away. It is truly remarkable and a trip worth taking. Pucari is more than just a winery; it is also a hotel, so wine revelers can stay on the estate to get the essence of the old world while dining on local dishes with wine made on the estate.

Swiss Chocolate and Wine

  The Swiss are famous for their decadent chocolates. Chocolate and wine are a divine pairing. So, how does wine in Switzerland measure up? For those who have tried delicately churned smooth and buttery Swiss-made chocolates, you know that the standard for making good chocolate is beyond great; it is superb. The same sentiment extends to wine which has a long history dating back to the Roman Empire. Wine in Switzerland is predominantly produced by vineyards situated in the west and south. Red grape varieties grow quite robustly in this wine region, with approximately 57 percent grown. The remaining percentage is white grape varieties. As with chocolate, wine is steeped in traditions past. These traditions still carry the foundation of how Swiss winemakers make wine.

  Knowing that Switzerland has six wine regions to explore is a bit daunting. All vineyards in this picturesque country are worth visiting, but notably, the Lavaux region, which is nestled between the Alps and Geneva. The Domaine Croix Duplex vineyard, established in 1929, might make you want to pack your bags and move to this beautiful country. If you could imagine a paintbrush in motion, this is what you will experience if you visit this vineyard. It sits in a backdrop that makes one feel like they are living art in real time. At this family-owned estate, you can try a selection of pinot noir, one of the most common grape varieties grown in Switzerland. They also have an excellent selection of the second most grown grape, white Chasselas. Swiss winemakers are also heralded for their uncanny approach to making exclusive wines made with grapes only found in this region. Most vineyards will have a selection of specialty wines. Domaine Croix Duplex has a specialty wine called Grappa de Fleurettes. What makes this wine unique is not just the grapes. It is the process of de-stemming the grapes and gently bursting the berry so the aromatic essence is still present after the wine has been fermented and distilled. This is a sublime experience during a tasting. Add a decadent piece of Swiss chocolate, and it is pure bliss.

  Viticulture allows traditions to transcend time. Where there is wine, there is history. Alas, one must not forget the foundations that were built before them. Everything that we experience today was once a dream. Every wine bottle uncorked belongs to the past as much as it does to the present moment. These vineyards are not just needed to fill your glass but to show us that growth is challenging, but with effort, it can yield spell-bounding results. When you travel abroad, escape to a hidden winery. Meet the people, learn from them and become the ultimate student of life.

January 20, 2023 – Unified Symposium eNews

Cyndi

Going Beyond the “State of the Industry” for Deeper Insights at Thursday’s General Session

Wednesday’s “State of the Industry” session offers a perspective of where we are today, but you’ll want to attend Thursday’s General Session, “A Focus on the Future: Trends and Opportunities from Across the Globe,” to hear a dream team of industry experts for tackling the future. This session was designed for small, medium and large brands in mind and will include the latest proprietary domestic and global consumer insights and trends.

Moderator:

Featured Speakers:

Panelists:

This not-to-be-missed session will take place on Thursday, January 26, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency (Ballroom).

Session receives 1 CEU: Professional Development – Leadership Skills, Meeting Facilitation. 1 CEU: Crop – Integrated Soil, Climate and Crop Data in Crop Management Systems.

If you haven’t registered yet, click here today!

Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie Bests All in 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition

Cyndi

Media Contact: Carl Giavanti Consulting, Carl@CarlGiavantiConsulting.com 971.221.4212


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Coppola‘s Domain de Broglie Bests All in 30th annual McMinnville Wine Competition
Diverse panel of professional judges endorse quality of Oregon Wines

Competition Submissions increase 25% with high profile entries from Willamette Valley

Submissions from non-festival wineries again surpasses expectations

McMinnville, OR January 16, 2023: The McMinnville Wine Classic Competition completed its 30th annual
professional judging on Saturday 1/7/23. All eight out-of-state judges arrived unfettered and ready to help elevate the competition. The wine competition has not missed an event including through the peak Covid years and is a dedicated fundraiser for McMinnville’s St. James School. It raises thousands of dollars for programs benefiting the school’s children. Organized by Rolland Toevs, Carl Giavanti and Jon Johnson and staffed by volunteers, the Mac Classic competition is one of the largest Oregon Only wine competitions in the state. Visit https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/

The competition draws professional judges from across the U.S. This year’s panel represents the full
spectrum of the wine industry, including future MW Samantha Cole Johnson of Janice Robinson.com,
Sommeliers like Fred Swan and Ellen Landis, Buyer Jusden Aumand from Tri-Vin Imports, and Wine Writers such as Clive Pursehouse the U.S. Editor for Decanter Magazine, Eric Degerman of Great Northwest Wine, Deborah Parker-Wong the U.S. Editor Slow Wine Guide, James Melendez aka James the Wine Guy, and Michael Apstein of Wine Review Online and Terroir Sense. See 2023 Judges Panel and bios on the website.

Wines were showing well, with distribution of Double Gold and Gold awards was across the state. Taking home top honors in 2023 was Domaine de Broglie, whose 2019 Dundee Hills Pinot Noir claimed Best of Show, Best Pinot Noir and Best Red Varietal, a first time ever for any winery in the state.

Cardwell Hill Cellars won Best Chardonnay again this year, a record fourth time, for their 2021 The Bard
Chard, as well as Best White Varietal. Pike Road Winery won Best Dessert Wine for their Yamhill-Carlton
AVA Route 47 Late Harvest white. Rounding out the awards was Durant Vineyards who gained the top
spot in the Best Sparkling Wine category for their 2019 Brut sparkling wine. All Double Gold and Gold
Medals are listed at the bottom of this page: https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/awards.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
List of 2023 Winery Awards: https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/awards
Photos: https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/gallery
Sponsors: https://www.mcminnvillewinecompetition.com/sponsors