As some of you may know, I started my career in viticulture in 1999. Three friends also began their grape growing journey that same year: Erin Amaral, Paul Crout, and Randy Heinzen. In the latest podcast episode, we got together to discuss our experiences in the vineyard industry over the past 25 years and what has grown and changed. Below, you will find a list of some of the things that are a little different than 25 years ago.
Back in 1999
Rootstock and Planting Practices:
- Vineyards commonly used 110R rootstock, which often led to overexposed fruit and insufficient water management.
- Row spacing was generous, typically 10-11 feet row middles and 6-8 feet between vines and many vineyards were own-rooted.
- Planting was generally done east to west to counteract winds in areas like the the Los Osos Valley.
Pest Control and Management:
- Pest control methods were rudimentary, focusing on traditional and broad-spectrum approaches.
- Spraying for mites and other pests was common without a comprehensive strategy.
- Sustainability and integrated pest management (IPM) were in their early stages.
Industry Experience and Creativity:
- The industry had less experience and creativity in plant nutrition.
- There was a limited understanding of disease and pest life cycles.
What Has Changed
Vineyard Management and Technology:
- Precision in vineyard management has dramatically improved.
- Soil mapping and variable rate fertility are now standard practices.
- Real-time data and computer-based scouting have replaced constant field visits.
Mechanization and Research:
- The shift from manual labor to mechanization has revolutionized the industry.
- Identification of the entire vitis genome has facilitated advanced research.
- Genetic editing has allowed for thoughtful adaptation in pest and disease management.
Sustainability Practices:
- There is an increased focus on sustainable and organic farming.
- A more sustainable approach to pest and disease management has been developed.
What’s Coming in the Future
Technological Advancements:
- Drones may be capable of treating individual vines.
- AI-powered cameras will identify and spray specific weeds without harming crops.
Genetic Innovations:
- CRISPR technology is poised to revolutionize grape cultivation.
- Gene editing will enhance resistance to heat stress and other environmental challenges.
Efficiency and Resilience:
- These innovations promise to make vineyard management more efficient.
- The future of winemaking is set to be dynamic and sustainable.
If you want to learn more about beginning grape growing in 1999, check out https://www.vineyardundergroundpodcast.com/vu061.
