The October 2013 issue of Technical Review is now available for viewing online and for downloading. Access is available only to Australian winemakers and grapegrowers who pay the Wine Grapes or Grape Research levies.
The new online Technical Review allows you to browse the list of the latest articles on grape and wine production by keyword, view article summaries and order journal articles from the AWRI Library.
To access the issue, click here.
The AWRI’s new five-year work plan: industry success a priority
Nominations open for AWRI Board positions
Tannin and phenolic measurement moves into the cloud
Organics and biodynamics: witchcraft or crafting with nature?
Put your name on the ballot now: 2014 AWRI Advanced Wine Assessment Courses
The AWRI tutored tasting series: World Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference in Sydney a great success
WineHealth 2013 – key messages
Attend a live seminar from your desk
AWRI researchers winning prizes for their work
The AWRI’s new RD&E plan for 2013-2018 was launched at the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference in July 2013. The plan is the result of a wide-ranging consultation process with the Australian grape and wine sector and other stakeholders during which a large number of potential RD&E activities were proposed, refined and prioritised.
The plan provides a clear direction for future activities and a starting point; it will evolve in line with emerging opportunities, changes to industry priorities and needs, and be delivered to the extent that available funding permits. Activities as identified in the plan formally commenced on 1 July 2013. Printed copies of an executive summary of the plan will be distributed to all levy payers with the AWRI’s Annual Report, however, an electronic copy is available now by clicking here.
The plan is segmented into Themes and Projects, which align with broad priorities identified in the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation (GWRDC) Strategic Research, Development and Extension plan 2012-2017 and other relevant industry and Government strategic directions. The AWRI Board believes that the projects in this plan will support the industry resilience needed to deal with current challenges, and enhance industry’s flexibility to adapt to further inevitable change.
As always, the AWRI’s priority is to support the long-term success and sustainability of the Australian wine sector through technical excellence and innovation, not just for the next five years but far into the future.
Nominations are sought for three Levy Payer-elected Director positions on the AWRI Board, which will become vacant on 31 December 2013. The AWRI’s Constitution provides that there will be not less than seven nor more than 11 Directors. Six of those directors are nominated and/or elected by organisations that pay the Wine Grapes Levy. Nominations close on Friday, 27 September 2013 at 5:00 pm.
Levy Payers in the small (<2,000 tonnes), medium (2,001-50,000 tonnes) and large (50,001+ tonnes) producer categories are called on to nominate suitably qualified candidates for the vacant positions.
This is an excellent opportunity for an interested candidate to become involved in the Australian wine industry’s own R&D organisation and, in addition to their other duties and responsibilities, provide a ‘coalface’ perspective to the direction and priorities of the AWRI’s research, development, extension and commercialisation activities.
In the event that more than one nomination is received for a particular category, an election will be held. Levy Payers in that particular category will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidate. If an election is necessary, it will be held in October/November 2013 and further information will be published at the time.
Successful candidates will take office on 1 January 2014 for a term of three years.
All Wine Grapes Levy payers will be sent an explanatory letter and nomination form in the first week of September. Nominations close on Friday, 27 September 2013 at 5:00 pm. Further information on the AWRI Board and the nomination/election process can be found here.
Health warning labels for China
The Chinese National Food Safety Standard GB2758-2012 came into force on 1 August 2013. This means that a warning statement is now mandatory on labels for all alcoholic beverages in China. The required warning statement, as outlined in the standard, should read ‘excessive drinking is harmful to health’ (or similar). The warning should, of course, be in Chinese (Mandarin).
Alcoholic tolerance for the UK market
In addition, confirmation has been received that the Australian industry’s long held view regarding alcohol tolerance in the European Union market is correct. The alcohol tolerance is 0.8% alc./vol. between the control analysis and the actual alcoholic strength of Australian wines imported into the European Union. This applies to both bulk and packaged wines. The actual alcohol strength may be indicated on the label in percentage to a tenth of a unit.
Allergen labelling in Croatia
In related news, Croatia has now officially joined the European Union as its 28th member state. The European Union Export Market Guide will be updated as soon as confirmation is received of the translation for the allergens statement.
The AWRI has launched an improved and expanded online tool which allows producers to monitor grape maturity, track active ferments and follow wines as they age, to achieve specific target profiles. This web-based tool allows grape and wine producers to upload, analyse and benchmark data in a secure online environment.
The AWRI has extended the Tannin Portal to bring to producers the WineCloudTM. Producers can use their own equipment to measure colour, phenolics and tannins in red grapes, ferments and wines. Users now have the ability to understand the potential of their grapes and wines and to benchmark them against others from around the world. It also helps winemakers to better understand the impact of different processes and make informed decisions in real time. For more details, please contact the AWRI or register at http://www.thewinecloud.com.au.
Are you curious about organic or biodynamic practices but don’t know where to start? The AWRI has just released a new Research to Practice workshop module titled ‘Sustainable viticulture: a comparison of organic, biodynamic and conventional practices’ that will provide some of the answers.
The AWRI and Luke Johnston, PhD candidate, have teamed up to compare the effects of organic, biodynamic and conventional viticulture systems on soil properties, vine physiology and grape and wine quality, which will be presented in a one-day workshop. The first of its kind, this training module presents the latest research and critically compares common viticulture practices with un-conventional thinking.
Research to Practice workshops are designed to facilitate practical training for grape growers, winemakers and associated personnel; convey the latest research findings; and improve the levels of adoption of best practice management techniques. These workshops are delivered by experts and with a focus on practical messages.
Other RtP workshops include:
For more information on this and other workshops, please contact Marcel Essling or telephone (08) 8313 6600.
If doing the AWRI’s Advanced Wine Assessment Course has always been on your ‘bucket-list’, now is the time to make sure your name is listed on the ballot. Two AWAC courses will be held in 2014 and entries for the ballot are now being received. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to be part of one of the most popular wine education courses in Australia and the world! Click here to find out more about the AWAC Course or register your details. If you have already registered and wish to enter the ballot click here.
Ballot strictly closes Monday, 24 February, 2014.
AWAC 33: Tuesday, 27 May – Friday, 30 May, 2014
AWAC 34: Monday, 2 June – Thursday, 5 June, 2014
LOCATION: Adelaide
COURSE FEE: $4,500 Including GST per course
For Australian winemakers to be internationally competitive, it is important to keep abreast of what the rest of the world is doing successfully. How do we compare and how can we remain innovative and competitive? This tasting event will examine: the classic and changing face and styles of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir table wines available to consumers in the world market; classic benchmarks; world competitors; and where styles are heading…..information which will help keep Australian producers at the forefront of what is happening with these two noble varieties.
This comprehensive tasting will be led by two of Australia’s finest winemakers and capital city show judges, Tom Carson and Iain Riggs. Two one-day events are scheduled to be held at the AWRI in Adelaide: 28 and 29 November 2013.
This tasting session on ‘World Chardonnay and Pinot Noir’ is third in a series, and follows on from the success of the other two tasting sessions previously held by the AWRI: ‘Sparkling wines of the world’ and ‘Wines of France’ – here is what others who attended had to say:
“This is an excellent means to steer and diversify Australian winemaking styles and well worth it… please continue these courses”
“Brilliant course”
“Well worth it”
“The best tasting I have ever been to”
To register your place for this event, complete the registration form now. This form and the program can be found here.
If you have any questions please contact Francesca or Con or on (08) 8313 6600.
The 15th Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference, held in Sydney in July this year, delivered on all fronts. It was the largest gathering in Australia of wine and grape professionals from all aspects of the industry, interacting over the course of a week, and delegates left buoyed by the wide range of presentations and activities on offer. Many AWRI staff members were involved in developing the formal program, running the workshop program, giving presentations and/or running workshops, managing the poster display and presenting posters. The team also put together a stand at the trade exhibition which had the theme ‘Sample our science’. It was fantastic to meet with so many industry members at the stand who were able to test their noses on faults and aromas as well as a Sauvignon Blanc made with new wine yeasts (not released yet). Visitors to the stand also met with AWRI researchers to discuss a range of topics covering viticulture, sensory, wine aromas and compounds, and winery operations. Congratulations to Suzanne Angas from Gatt Wines, who is the winner of the AWRI’s iPad prize draw.
Webcasts of all formal presentations are exclusively available to registered AWITC delegates at http://www.awitc.com.au until 1 November 2013, after which time the webcasts will be made available to all Australian grape and wine producers who pay the Wine Grapes or Grape Research levies via the AWRI website.
The seventh in the series of WineHealth International Wine and Health conferences, WineHealth 2013 was held in Sydney on 18-20 July, 2013. There were eight sessions comprising 28 presentations covering aspects from public health to the latest human clinical studies in young and ageing populations on cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, for example. The data presented strengthened the evidence base for light to moderate wine consumption to be considered as a legitimate component of a healthy diet and lifestyle for the general population. Key messages from the presentations include that light to moderate wine consumption can decrease the risk of death in general, irrespective of increasing age, as well as specifically death from cardiovascular disease in both men and women compared to abstainers. The inclusion of light to moderate wine consumption in the daily diet can also decrease the risk and onset of cognitive decline and dementia, and might actually decrease, rather than increase, the risk of death from certain cancers.
For more information, please contact Creina Stockley, Health and Regulatory information Manager, who was the Chair of the WineHealth 2013 Scientific Advisory Committee.
Have you joined in on one of the AWRI’s webinars yet? All you need is a computer connected to the internet to participate. Don’t miss this year’s series of live and interactive webinars presented by the AWRI researchers and industry guests. Webinars will cover a diverse range of topics across viticulture, winemaking, climate and consumer insights. They provide an excellent opportunity to hear up-to-date research results and to ask the presenter questions.
Each webinar consists of a presentation followed by a Q&A session and is held on a Tuesday or Thursday at 11:30 am Australian Central Time (Adelaide, GMT+9:30). The webinar program is free to attend, but registration is required. To register or to find out more details on the full webinar program, visit the website.
Upcoming events
| Date | Topic | Presenter |
| 10 September 2013 | Vines for the times: Proactive and reactive canopy management techniques | Catherine Kidman (Treasury Wine Estates) |
| 12 September 2013 | Climate trends and changes for Australian wine regions | Darren Ray (Bureau of Meteorology) |
| 17 September 2013 | Management of eutypa dieback in grapevines | Mark Sosnowski (South Australian Research & Development Institute) |
| 24 September 2013 | Recent advances in yield forecasting: rapid, reliable estimation tools | Greg Dunn (National Wine and Grape Industry Centre) |
| 1 October 2013 | Advances in phylloxera detection and management with rootstocks and quarantine | Kevin Powell (The Department of Environment and Primary Industries Victoria) |
| 8 October 2013 | The effects of metals on the evolution of volatile sulfur compounds during wine maturation | Marlize Viviers (The AWRI) |
| 15 October 2013 | Rootstocks for Australian conditions | Rob Walker (The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) |
| 22 October 2013 | Thinking outside the bottle: Insights on how Chinese consumers choose wine | Patricia Williams (The AWRI) |
| 29 October 2013 | Challenges of climate change in the vineyard: coping with the next 50 years | Everard Edwards (The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) |
In the last AWRI eNews, it was advised that AWRI Research Scientist, Dimitra Capone, had been named as a finalist in the 2013 SA Science Excellence Awards sponsored by The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST). It is great to now announce that Dimitra won the Early Career STEM Professional – Life and Environmental Sciences Award on Friday 16 August 2013.
Further recognition to the work being undertaken by the AWRI chemists came through the receipt of an ‘Outstanding Poster Prize’ for the poster ‘Determination of the potent flavour compound rotundone in grapes and wine using MDGC-MS and membrane assisted solvent extraction’ by AWRI Senior Scientist, Tracey Siebert, and AWRI Technical Officer, Sheridan Barter. Tracey presented this poster at the 37th International Symposium on Capillary Chromatography and 10th GCxGC Symposium (Palm Springs, USA).
Several staff and students of the AWRI also took home poster prizes awarded at the 15th Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference chosen from the 106 posters on display:
| Prize | Poster title | Authors |
| Best General Wine Production poster | Automating fermentation control with computer simulation | Richard Muhlack, Neil Scrimgeour, Peter Godden |
| Best Oenology (Wine) poster | Proctase – a viable alternative to bentonite for protein stabilisation of white wines | Matteo Marangon, Steven Van Sluyter, Ella Robinson, Neil Scrimgeour, Richard Muhlack, Helen Holt, Elizabeth Waters, Peter Godden, Paul Smith |
| Best Oenology (Microbiology) poster | Development of a micro-scale microbiological screen for compatibility of yeast and bacterial strains in MLF | Caroline Abrahamse, Eveline Bartowsky |
| Best Oenology (Chemistry) poster | Microwave maceration of Pinot Noir: phenolically equivalent, aromatically distinct | (AWRI-supervised student) Anna Carew, Natoiya Lloyd, Dugald Close, Robert Dambergs |
| Best student poster | Intrabunch variability of rotundone concentration in Vitis vinifera cv. Shiraz wine grapes at harvest | (AWRI-supervised student) Pangzhen Zhang, Nathan Scarlett, Damien Sheehan, Snow Barlow, Mark Krstic, Markus Herderich, Kate Howell |
John Fornachon Memorial Library at the AWRI delivers journal articles and loans books to Australian grapegrowers and winemakers. Books can be searched and requested via the Library catalogue – or you can email the Library with your request. A list of recent AWRI publications follows.
Recent AWRI staff publications
(1541) Johnson, D. Tune in…and keep up! WBM (June): 28-29; 2013.
(1542) Holt, H., Cozzolino, D., McCarthy, J., Abrahamse, C., Holt, S., Solomon, M., Smith, P., Chambers, P.J., Curtin, C. Influence of yeast strain on Shiraz wine quality indicators. International journal of food microbiology 165 (2): 302-311; 2013.
(1543) Stockley, C. Australia to host international wine and health conference in 2013. Australian & New Zealand grapegrower & winemaker (594): p. 6; 2013.
(1544) Cowey, G., Essling, M. Adapting to difficult vintages. Australian & New Zealand grapegrower & winemaker (594): p. 26; 2013.
(1545) Essling, M. Ask the AWRI: Vary strategies for successful weed management. Australian & New Zealand grapegrower & winemaker (594): p. 36; 2013.
(1546) Hoxey, L., Stockley, C., Wilkes, E., Johnson, D. What’s in a label? Wine & viticulture journal 28 (4) : 38-41; 2013.
(1548) Cordente, A.G., Curtin, C.D., Varela, C., Pretorius, I. S. Flavour-active wine yeasts. Applied microbiology and biotechnology 96 (3): 601-618; 2012.
(1549) Ristic, R., Pinchbeck, K.A., Fudge, A.L., Hayasaka, Y., Wilkinson, K.L. Effect of leaf removal and grapevine smoke exposure on colour, chemical composition and sensory properties of Chardonnay wines. Australian journal of grape and wine research 19 (2): 230-237; 2013.
(1550) Curtin, C.D., Langhans, G., Henschke, P.A., Grbin, P.R. Impact of Australian Dekkera bruxellensis strains grown under oxygen-limited conditions on model wine composition and aroma. Food microbiology 36 (2): 241-247; 2013.
(1551) Dry, P., Longbottom, M., Essling, M. Is there a need for improved vineyard assessment for fruit grading? Wines & vines 94 (7): 52-55; 2013.
(1552) Gawel, R., Van Sluyter, S.C., Smith, P.A., Waters, E.J. The effect of pH and alcohol on perception of phenolic character in white wine. American Journal of Enology and Viticulture doi: 10.5344/ajev.2013.13016: 1-14: 2013.
(1553) Dry, P. Marzemino. Wine & viticulture journal 28 (4) : p. 63; 2013.
(1554) Holdstock, M. Ask the AWRI: Snapshot of oak-related queries. Australian & New Zealand grapegrower & winemaker (595): p. 68; 2013.
(1555) Leske, P.A., Francis, I.L., Hunt, D. Sensory Evaluation. (eds) Bulleid, N., Jiranek, V. Australian Winemaking. Trivinum Press, Adelaideonline: http://www.trivinumpress.com.au/SEN: 35 p.; 2013.
(1556) Bartowksy, E.J., Fleet, G.H. Malolactic Fermentation. (eds) Bulleid, N., Jiranek, V. Australian Winemaking. Trivinum Press, Adelaideonline: http://www.trivinumpress.com.au/MLF; xx p.; 2013.
(1557) Fudge, A.L., Wilkinson, K.L., Ristic, R., Cozzolino, D. Synchronous two-dimensional MIR correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) as a novel method for screening smoke tainted wine. Food chemistry 139 (1-4): 115-119; 2013.
(1558) Cozzolino, D., Cynkar, W.U., Dambergs, R.G., Shah, N., Smith, P. In situ measurement of soil chemical composition by near-Infrared spectroscopy: a tool toward sustainable vineyard management. Communications in soil science and plant analysis. 44 (10): 1610-1619; 2013.
The material contained in this publication is comment of a general nature only and is not and nor is it intended to be advice on any specific technical or professional matter. In that the effectiveness or accuracy of any technical or professional advice depends upon the particular circumstances of each case, neither the AWRI nor any individual author accepts any responsibility whatsoever for any acts or omissions resulting from reliance upon the content of any articles. Before acting on the basis of any material contained in this publication, we recommend that you consult appropriate technical/professional advisers.
Nominations are sought for three Levy Payer-elected Director positions on the AWRI Board, which will become vacant on 31 December 2013. The AWRI’s Constitution provides that there will be not less than seven nor more than 11 Directors. Six of those directors are nominated and/or elected by organisations that pay the Wine Grapes Levy. Nominations close on Friday, 27 September 2013 at 5:00 pm.
Levy Payers in the small (<2,000 tonnes), medium (2,001-50,000 tonnes) and large (50,001+ tonnes) producer categories are called on to nominate suitably qualified candidates for the vacant positions.
This is an excellent opportunity for an interested candidate to become involved in the Australian wine industry’s own R&D organisation and, in addition to their other duties and responsibilities, provide a ‘coalface’ perspective to the direction and priorities of the AWRI’s research, development, extension and commercialisation activities.
In the event that more than one nomination is received for a particular category, an election will be held. Levy Payers in that particular category will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidate. If an election is necessary, it will be held in October/November 2013 and further information will be published at the time.
Successful candidates will take office on 1 January 2014 for a term of three years.
All Wine Grapes Levy payers will be sent an explanatory letter and nomination form in the first week of September. Nominations close on Friday, 27 September 2013 at 5:00 pm. Further information on the AWRI Board and the nomination/election process can be found here.
The AWRI have extended the revolutionary Tannin Portal to bring you the WineCloudTM. This web-based tool allows grape and wine producers to upload, analyse and benchmark data in a secure online environment.
The WineCloudTM can be used to monitor grape maturity, track active ferments and follow wines as they age, to achieve specific target profiles. A key feature of the WineCloudTM is that producers can use their own equipment to measure colour, phenolics and tannins in red grapes, ferments and wines. Users now have the ability to understand the potential of their grapes and wine and to benchmark them against others from around the world. It also helps winemakers to better understand the impact of different processes and make informed decisions in real time.
More information is available via the AWRI website. To register, please visit
The ‘Winemaking calculators’ is one of the most popular tools on the AWRI’s website and it receives an average of 19,000 hits per year. The tool takes the guess work out of calculation rates over most aspects of wine production. To better support winemakers, the winemaking calculators are now available as a mobile app.
Information about the app is available from the AWRI website:
https://www.awri.com.au/industry_support/winemaking_resources/winemaking-calculators-app/
| Main menu | Categories of calculators |
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| Standard drinks calculator | Copper sulfate calculator |
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Great response received for the 15th Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference
Sample the science at WineTech 2013 – the Australian Wine Industry Trade Exhibition
WineHealth 2013 to be held this month
Environmental services in focus as CO2 hits an all time high
Climate projections focuses producers on 2030 and beyond
Attend a live seminar from your desk
AWRI Scientist finalist in 2013 SA Science Excellence Awards
Recent literature
The 15th AWITC is now less than two weeks away, and it’s great to see the registrations coming in every day. Held every three years, it is the Australian wine industry’s most important event in supporting the sustainability of the Australian wine industry. This, and WineTech – the Australian Wine Industry Trade Exhibition, will be held in Sydney this year from 14-17 July (workshops running 13-18 July). The sessions, workshops, posters and trade exhibition are specifically tailored to the requirements of Australian wine and grape professionals. Don’t miss it.
AWITC by the numbers:
If you want to register for the conference, or for a workshop, or for the trade exhibition, or for all of it – read on. If you want to know about joining the AWITC team in the Sydney 10 km fun run or learn about the Pop up Bars or attend the conference dinner – read on. See you in Sydney!
Register for the Conference
Click here to register for the 15AWITC. Click here to download the program. Click here to download the workshop program (note that workshops W15, W25, W28, W33, W34 are sold out).
If you can’t attend the conference, you can still attend as a visitor for WineTech – the Australian Wine Industry Trade Exhibition
Click here to register as a visitor only for WineTech – the Australian Wine Industry Trade Exhibition. Note that conference delegates do not need to register separately to attend the trade exhibition.
In the wine light
As part of the conference program, the In the wine light student forum will be held 5:30-7:00 pm, Monday, 15 July in the Bayside Terrace, Level 2, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre. Drinks and nibbles will be provided. All delegates are welcome to attend.
Conference dinner
Pop-up Wine Bars
Pop-up wine bars will be at the Conference with each one offering delegates the opportunity to sample wines from around the country. Locations and any variations to times will be broadcast on Twitter (follow the posts on #15AWITC or follow us on @The_AWITC) and details available from staff at the AWITC registration desk.
The pop up bars will run for 45 mins (or until stocks run out) and are scheduled as follows:
Alumni breakfast
The University of Adelaide is organising an alumni breakfast. This will be held 7:00 am, Monday, 15 July at the Novotel Darling Harbour. For more information and to register go to: http://www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/winesyd
Team AWITC: Sydney Harbour 10 km fun run – starts and finishes at The Rocks, Sydney
Feeling fit? A 10 km public fun run is being held on Sunday 14 July. The run starts and finishes in The Rocks and follows a course that gives participants great views of the harbour and city. And yes, the course is flat! More info is available here. Once you have completed the personal details on the registration form, you will be asked if you would like to join the 15th AWITC team.
The organiser’s website is a little confusing. Here is what you do to join your colleagues in the 15AWITC team:
Keep up to date on Twitter.
The AWRI will have a stand at WineTech 2013 (14-17 July 2013, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre) and is a great opportunity for industry members to gain a deeper insight into how the AWRI delivers value to grape and wine producers. Meet up with researchers, try out new technologies and discover the analytical, information and education services the AWRI has to offer. Fill out a feedback survey for a chance to win an iPad! The AWRI is located at Stand # 2236. Note: AWITC delegates do not need to register separately to visit the exhibition. If you can’t attend the AWITC, you can still visit the exhibition, free of charge, by registering here to save time, or register on the day you visit.
The international WineHealth 2013 conference will be held following the 15th Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference (18-20 July at the Sydney Convention Centre). New research on the relationship between the consumption of wine and health is accelerating from around the world. WineHealth 2013 in Sydney builds on the success of the 6th International WineHealth Conference held in Friuli, Italy in 2010, and brings together scientific experts from across the globe. Experts will present their latest research findings across a variety of disciplines. Read more for more information or to register.
Speakers work in a variety of disciplines including:
Cardiovascular health
Pharmacology
Ageing
Cognitive function
Nutrition and lifestyle
Psychology
This conference presents the most objective picture of what is known about wine and its relationship to health. Sociological outcomes of the use and abuse of wine, and hence public health priorities will also be presented.
Click here to access the list of speakers and here for the program.
For further information, contact Creina Stockley, The Australian Wine Research Institute by email or telephone +61 (0) 8 8313 6600. Or visit the website for more information.
TIn May 2013, the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii announced for the first time in human history that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) had passed 400 parts per million. Closer to home in Tasmania, latest CO2 readings are fast approaching a similar high. If these trends continue, climate variation might have serious business impact. The AWRI Commercial Services team has significant expertise in developing and executing environmental strategies for the industry.
It’s timely to consider how to manage a variable climate and whether key brands have clear and prominent environmental credentials. Unlike many consultants working in this field, the AWRI team has an excellent knowledge of commercial winemaking built on a foundation of process engineering experience. Services provided include useful environmental accounting and formulation of strategies to improve environmental performance.
For further information contact Karl Forsyth by email or telephone 0409 098 092.
The AWRI and Wine Victoria were proud to host the ‘Vintage 2030 and beyond – producing quality wines in warmer times’ Symposium on Wednesday, 19 June 2013 in Melbourne (at the Elisabeth Murdoch Lecture Theatre at The University of Melbourne). This symposium brought together Australia’s best presenters and latest thinking on climate projections for key wine producing regions across Australia, and looked at novel ways the wine industry is adapting to these challenges. Copies of the presentations that have been made publicly available for download are available from the AWRI website.
Presenters included Professor Will Steffen (ANU/Climate Commission), Dr Penny Whetton (CSIRO), Dr Peter Hayman (SARDI), Dr Victor Sadras (SARDI), Robert Paul (Vintager Winemaking Services), Dr Michael McCarthy (SARDI), Andrew Weeks (CCW – absent on day – presentation delivered by Dr Mark Krstic), Dr Paul Petrie (TWE), Roland Wahlquist (Brown Brothers), Darren Rathbone (Rathbone Wine Group), George Mihaly (Paradigm Hill) and Dr Richard Smart (Smart Viticulture).
The day was attended by approximately 90 people, mostly from the Victorian wine sector.
The AWRI webinar series for 2013 is now underway! Don’t miss this year’s series of live and interactive webinars presented by the AWRI researchers and industry guests. Webinars will cover a diverse range of topics across viticulture, winemaking, climate and consumer insights. They provide an excellent opportunity to hear up-to-date research results and to ask the presenter questions.
Each webinar consists of a presentation followed by a Q&A session and is held on a Tuesday at 11:30 am Australian Central Time (Adelaide, GMT+9:30). The webinar program is free to attend, but registration is required. To register or to find out more details on the full webinar program, visit the website.
Upcoming events
23 July 2013
Optimising your laboratory for the best results Webinar
Eric Wilkes (The AWRI)
For more information and to register click here.
30 July 2013
Strategies for reducing alcohol levels in wine Webinar
Cristian Varela (The AWRI)
For more information and to register click here.
6 August 2013
The latest on CMCs
Eric Wilkes (The AWRI)
For more information and to register click here.
20 August 2013
Till death do us part: Cell death in the grape berry as a quality measure Webinar
Steve Tyerman (The University of Adelaide)
For more information and to register click here.
27 August 2013
Climate influence and trends for the wine industry Webinar
Darren Ray (Bureau of Meteorology)
For more information and to register click here.
The AWRI Research Scientist, Dimitra Capone, has just been named as a finalist in the 2013 SA Science Excellence Awards sponsored by The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST). Dimi has been recognised within the Early Career category in the field of Life and Environmental Sciences. These awards recognise and reward outstanding scientific endeavour, including its application in industry. Dimi’s nomination recognises her research efforts in two areas of flavour chemistry:
Both of these projects have given producers greater opportunities to have control over the final aroma profile of their wines. Winners of the SA Science Excellence Awards will be announced in August.
John Fornachon Memorial Library at the AWRI delivers journal articles and loans books to Australian grapegrowers and winemakers. Books can be searched and requested via the Library catalogue – or you can email the Library with your request. A list of recent AWRI publications follows.
Recent AWRI staff publications
Bell, S-J, Francis, I.L. Manipulating vineyard nitrogen on a saline site: 1. Effect of nitrogen on growth, grape yield and nutrients of Vitis vinifera L. cv Shiraz. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture Doi 10.1002/jsfa.6131: 1-9 ; 2013.
Dry, P., Longbottom, M., Essling, M. Is there a need for improved vineyard assessment for fruit grading? Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker (592): 23-25; 2013.
Longbottom, M. Ask the AWRI: Salt in grapes and wine a common issue. Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker (592): 28-29; 2012.
Borneman, AR, Schmidt, S.A., Pretorius, I.S. At the cutting-edge of grape and wine biotechnology. Trends in Genetics 29 (4): 263-271; 2013.
Carew, A.L., Sparrow, A.M., Curtin, C.D., Close, D.C., Dambergs, R.G. Microwave maceration of Pinot Noir grape must: sanitation and extraction effects and wine phenolics outcomes. Food and Bioprocess Technology DOI 10.1007/s11947-013-1112-x: 1-10; 2013.
Dry, P. Verduzzo friulano. Wine & Viticulture Journal 28 (3): 57; 2013.
Longbottom, M., Simos, C., Krstic, M., Johnson, D. Grape quality assessments: a survey of current practice. Wine & Viticulture Journal 28 (3): 33-37; 2013.
Boido, E., Farina, L., Carrau, F., Dellacassa, E., Cozzolino, D. Characterization of glycosylated aroma compounds in Tannat grapes and feasibility of the Near Infrared Spectroscopy application for their prediction. Food and Analytical Methods. 6 (1): 100-111; 2013.
Taylor, A., Day, M.P., Hill, S., Marshall, J., Patriarca, M., White, M. Atomic spectrometry update. Clinical and biological materials, foods and beverages. Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry 28 (4) 2013.
Stockley, C. Ask the AWRI. Australian & New Zealand Grapegrower & Winemaker (593): 82-83; 2013.
Herderich, M.J., Siebert, T.E., Parker, M., Capone, D.L., Mayr, C., Zhang, P., Geffroy, O., Williamson, P., Francis, I.L. Synthesis of the ongoing works on Rotundone, an aromatic compound responsible for the peppery notes in wines. Internet Journal of Enology and Viticulture 6/1: 1-6; 2013.
Marangon, M., Stockdale, V.J., Munro, P., Tretheway, T., Schulkin, A., Holt, H.E., Smith, P.A. Addition of carrageenan at different stages of winemaking for white wine protein stabilization Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. DOI: 10.1021/jf401712d: 1-44; 2013.
Lucchetta, M., Pocock, K.F., Waters, E.J., Marangon, M. Use of zirconium dioxide during fermentation as an alternative to protein fining with bentonite for white wines. American Journal of Enology and Viticulture. Doi: 10.5344/ajev.2013.12143: 1-15; 2013.
The material contained in this publication is comment of a general nature only and is not and nor is it intended to be advice on any specific technical or professional matter. In that the effectiveness or accuracy of any technical or professional advice depends upon the particular circumstances of each case, neither the AWRI nor any individual author accepts any responsibility whatsoever for any acts or omissions resulting from reliance upon the content of any articles. Before acting on the basis of any material contained in this publication, we recommend that you consult appropriate technical/professional advisers.
Understanding the impact of wine on human health is essential for any winemaker. New research on the relationship between the consumption of wine and health is accelerating from around the world. Building on the success of the 6th International WineHealth Conference held in Friuli, Italy in 2010, WineHealth 2013 will be held in Sydney, Australia, in July, bringing together scientific experts from across the globe. Experts will present their latest research findings across a variety of disciplines including:
This conference presents the most objective picture of what is known about wine as a unique beverage and its relationship to health. Sociological outcomes of the use and abuse of wine, and hence public health priorities will also be presented.
Click here to access the list of speakers, here for the program and here to register. Note: the registration fee is discounted to $650 for anyone who registers for this event and the 15th Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference.
WineHealth 2013 – 18-20 July
Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour
For further information, contact Creina Stockley, The Australian Wine Research Institute, on Creina.stockley@awri.com.au or telephone +61 (0) 8 8313 6600. Or visit the website for more information http://www.winehealth.com.au
The June 2013 issue of Technical Review is now available for viewing online and for downloading. Access is available only to Australian winemakers and grapegrowers who pay the Wine Grapes or Grape Research levies.
The new online Technical Review allows you to browse the list of the latest articles on grape and wine production by keyword, view article summaries and order journal articles from the AWRI Library.
To access the issue, click here.
The AWRI publication Agrochemicals registered for use in Australian viticulture 2013/2014 is now available.
Major changes in the 2013/2014 Dog Book are:
New restrictions on use
BOSCALID
The boscalid (Filan) restriction on use for export grapes has changed. Testing undertaken over the previous season was unable to identify a withholding period that would meet the MRL requirements of some export markets.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Not recommended for use on grapes destined for export wines. Consult your winery/grape purchaser prior to the application of any boscalid spray.
Active constituents and targets
AMETOCTRADIN + DIMETHOMORPH
APVMA 63651
Zampro has been granted registration by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for control of downy mildew in grapevines.
Zampro is a BASF product. It is a co-formulation containing ametoctradin and dimethomorph which are Group 45 and Group 40 fungicides respectively. ZAMPRO should be used solely as a protectant fungicide.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Use no later than 80% capfall.
Resistance management strategy: Apply a maximum of two consecutive sprays before changing to an alternative mode of action for at least one application. Do not apply more than four sprays per season.
CYFLUFENAMID
APVMA 66970
Flute 50 EW has been granted registration by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for control of powdery mildew in grapevines.
Flute 50 EW is an AgNova Technologies Pty Ltd product. It contains the active constituent cyflufenamid which is a Group U6 fungicide. This is in the phenyl-acetamide chemical family and has an unknown mode of action.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Use no later than E-L 31, berries pea size (7 mm diameter).
Resistance management strategy: CropLife Australia has not released a resistance management strategy for this group but the label recommends no more than two applications per season.
PROQUINAZID
APVMA 64165
Talendo has been granted registration by the APVMA for control of powdery mildew in grapevines.
Talendo is a DuPont Australia Ltd product. It contains the active constituent proquinazid which is a Group 13 fungicide that should be used as a protectant treatment only.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Use no later than 30 days before harvest.
Resistance management strategy: DO NOT apply more than two consecutive sprays of a Group 13 fungicide. DO NOT apply more than three Group 13 sprays per season.
TEBUCONAZOLE and AZOXYSTROBIN
APVMA 66541
Custodia has been granted registration by the APVMA for control of powdery mildew in grapevines.
Custodia is a Farmoz Pty Ltd product. It contains the active constituents tebuconazole and azoxystrobin. It should be used as a protectant treatment only.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Use no later than 80% capfall.
Resistance management strategy: DO NOT apply more than two consecutive sprays of Custodia. DO NOT apply more than two sprays of Custodia per season. DO NOT use Custodia curatively.
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE AND PEROXYACETIC ACID
APVMA 66320
Peratec Plus has been granted registration by the APVMA for suppression of botrytis bunch rot, downy mildew and powdery mildew in grapevines.
Peratec Plus is a Jaegar Australia product.
Restriction on use for export grapes: Use no later than 7 days before harvest.
TWO SPOTTED MITE
Control options for two spotted mite have been included in the ‘Recommendations’ section.
| petroleum oil | na | Stifle | Dormant spray only. |
| sulfur, present as polysulfide | M2 | Lime Sulphur | Apply as near as possible to budburst |
| sulfur, present as elemental or crystalline sulfur | M2 | Barmac Wettable Sulphur, Brysulf 800 WG, Chemtura Sulphur WG, Cosamil, Cosavet WG, David Grays Sulphur Spray, GranuSulf 800 WG, InnoSulph 800 WG, Kendon Sulphur, Kumulus DF, Microsul WG Elite, Microthiol Disperss, Notion, Rutec Sulfur, Stollers Flowable Sulphur, Sulfostar DF, Sulfur 800 WG, Sulgran WG, Thiovit Jet, Titan Sulphur 800 WG, Top Wettable Sulphur, Uni-Shield | Use no later than 30 days before harvest. |
| etoxazole | 10B | ParaMite | Use no later than 21 days before harvest. |
AMITROLE + GLYPHOSATE-IPA + AMMONIUM THIOCYANATE
APVMA 55765
All references to the herbicide Illico have been removed as the product is no longer being marketed.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any Illico spray.
CLOTHIANIDIN
APVMA 60687
Neonicotinoid insecticides are under review by the APVMA. Pending the outcome of this review, Samurai has been removed from the ‘Recommendations’ section of the Dog Book. Samurai is registered for control of long tailed mealybug in grapes.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any Samurai spray.
DIMETHOATE
All references to insecticides containing dimethoate have been removed as no products are currently registered for grapes. APVMA permits may allow the use of dimethoate products in grapes/vineyards in some situations.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any dimethoate spray.
DIURON
All references to herbicides containing diuron have been removed as no products are currently registered for grapes. APVMA permits may allow the use of diuron products in grapes/vineyards in some situations.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any diuron spray.
FENTHION
All references to insecticides containing fenthion have been removed as no products are currently registered for grapes. APVMA permits may allow the use of fenthion products in grapes/vineyards in some situations.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any fenthion spray.
GLYPHOSATE-TRIMESIUM
All references to herbicides containing glyphosate trimesium have been removed as no products are currently registered for grapes.
It is advised that growers consult their winery and/or grape purchaser prior to the application of any glyphosate-trimesium spray.
PARATHION-METHYL
All references to insecticides containing parathion-methyl have been removed as no products are currently registered for grapes.
SPINOSAD
APVMA 56881
APVMA 59303
Entrust Naturalyte and Success 2 Naturalyte have been removed as they are no longer registered. Growers can use existing stock of Entrust Naturalyte and Success 2 Naturalyte until 4 November 2013 and 23 November 2013 respectively against grapevine moth and light brown apple moth. The recommendation for export wine is ‘Use no later than E-L 31, berries pea-size (7 mm diameter).
Resistance management strategy
The CropLife Australia powdery mildew resistance management strategy for Group 11 fungicides now comprises the following points:
This information is provided to inform the Australian grape and wine sector of agrochemical information, and should not be interpreted as an endorsement.
