Vignerons prepare future vintages
3 Jun 2016
The best techniques to rework old vines with new grapevine varieties and clones will feature at the Pokolbin Hall on Thursday June 9, from 8.30 am until 3 pm.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) viticultural development officer, Darren Fahey, said local vignerons will benefit from knowledge of winegrape researchers and experienced exponents of grapevine grafting.
“The workshop promises to give local winemakers and grape growers insights into the latest varieties to suit the Hunter region, helping them to stay ahead of the game and get it right from the start,” Mr Fahey said.
“DPI researcher, Bruno Holzapfel and industry consultant, Sam Bowman, will deliver the latest information on the performance of new clones and varieties, some of which are yet to be released.”
“Tony Hoare has successfully transformed thousands of hectares of vines across Australia and Richard Hamilton will outline detailed case studies of reworking vines from his 12 years of vineyard experience with Treasury Wines.
“Dr Nuredin Habili from the University of Adelaide will be on hand to offer tips on how to best manage virus risks during the grafting process.”
Mr Fahey said a special presentation from DPI biosecurity liaison officer, Bev Zurbo, will highlight the risk of the grapevine pest, phylloxera, and outline how growers can ensure their vineyards remain free of the pest.
“Phylloxera is a tiny, soil-borne insect which feeds on vine roots and once introduced it can’t be eradicated,” he said.
“The Hunter produces some of the world’s best wines and phylloxera is not wanted here.”
DPI advises a ‘Come clean – Go clean’ approach to stop its spread by infested vines, soil and machinery, with industry playing a significant role in keeping NSW’s wine growing areas of free of phylloxera.
The workshop aims to raise grower awareness of the pest, how it spreads, its effects on production, market access, testing, associated costs and potential impacts on rural communities.
Supported by the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association, NSW Wine Industry Association and Wine Australia, the workshop costs $25 to cover catering. Vignerons should register by contacting Mr Fahey, darren.fahey@dpi.nsw.gov.au and 0457 842 874 or melissa@hvwta.com.au
Media contact: Bernadette York (02) 6938 1664, 0427 773 785
