This issue of Grapegrower & Winemaker has a focus on the vineyard and so we explore important aspects of soil health. Firstly, we look closely at the attributes of soil for the adoption of sustainable viticulture and then we turn to vineyard wheel traffic and compaction of soil to better understand its composition. We’re also informed about concerns about trunk disease and, specifically, the threat posed by infected grafted vines. With wet conditions having had such an effect on the past growing season for many, we also include an overview of effective management practices for Botrytis, powdery mildew and downy mildew. Heading into the winery, we examine the technology behind an advanced new water filtration system installed and successfully utilised at Taylors Wines in the Clare Valley. We head to the other end of the technological scale to uncover a new revival of amphorae, a simple, ancient winemaking tool that’s risen again from the dust. read more...
