Project related to full-time master’s degree Food and Wine Business, Major of the Master in Management of Creative and Cultural Industries, Amsterdam and Rome

My Prompt

The idea of crop homogenization may suggest greater efficiency, savings in labor, time, and costs; however, numerous studies argue that this does not necessarily lead to the best results (Diebolt, Miranda, & Aleixandre-Tudó, 2015). The reason for this is what is known as the spatial-temporal variability of the vineyard “within the soil-plant-atmosphere system” (Cook & Bramley, 1998; COVIAL – Control de Vinos y Alimentos, S.L, 2021), which is based on factors that primarily determine the future of the vines, such as soil composition or climatic changes (Báguena & Barreiro, 2011). It is therefore reasonable to conclude that, in the face of high variability, homogeneous management only hinders the maximum potential of the plantation, making differentiated management necessary.

Thus, by dividing the vineyard into sectors according to their different characteristics and needs, it is possible to control production, predict its evolution and outcome, allowing the winemaker to produce “grapes on demand according to the needs of the winemakers” (COVIAL – Control de Vinos y Alimentos, S.L, 2021).

The technological revolution of recent years has made it possible to use localization and positioning tools that improve the diagnosis of vineyard evolution, decision-making, and, therefore, the efficiency in the use of the various resources necessary for the production of quality wine (Martínez-Casasnovas & Bordes, 2005).

In other words, as the Argentine winemaker Pedro Luis Marchevsky defines it, “it is the vineyard management technique that uses all the current knowledge about the behavior of this species to optimize the production of superior quality grapes” (COVIAL – Control de Vinos y Alimentos, S.L, 2021), projecting not only the improvement of production in quantity and quality but also minimizing its environmental impact as much as possible (COVIAL – Control de Vinos y Alimentos, S.L, 2021).

Therefore, the idea of vineyard homogenization is possible but, indeed, through precision viticulture, since “the definition of homogeneous management zones within the vineyard is essential if the standardization of production quality is desired” (Esser & Ortega, 2021)

Ai Tools: ChatGPT4

Optimizing the vine to wine process: how new technologies help embrace variability to reduce costs and emissions while increasing products’ quality

The use of advanced technologies in vineyard management, such as drones, sensors, and positioning tools, has revolutionized modern viticulture, allowing differentiated management that adapts agricultural practices to the specific conditions of each plot. This precision optimizes production, improves grape quality, and minimizes resource use, thereby reducing environmental impact. By monitoring critical variables such as soil composition, climate conditions, and plant health, winemakers can make informed decisions that not only increase efficiency but also promote sustainability.

The importance of these technologies lies in their ability to address the challenges of the spatial-temporal variability of the vineyard, allowing the production of “custom grapes” that meet market demands and reduce waste. Additionally, they enhance traceability and food safety, crucial aspects not only in wine production but also applicable to the food sector in general. By implementing precision technologies and blockchain, the use of inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides is optimized, reducing their negative environmental impact and promoting more responsible agriculture.

A key example of innovation in this context is blockchain technology, which can be applied throughout the production chain, from the vineyard to the bottle of wine, ensuring traceability and transparency at every stage of the process. Blockchain allows data to be securely and immutably recorded and verified, ensuring product authenticity and helping consumers understand the origin and practices used in their production. This not only fosters consumer trust but also promotes more sustainable and responsible practices throughout the supply chain.

In the context of climate change and pressure on natural resources, adopting these technologies represents a pathway to a more sustainable future, where product quality and quantity are improved without compromising the planet’s health. Applied to the food sector, these innovations help create more resilient, efficient production systems tailored to the needs of the 21st century, fostering a more sustainable and conscientious supply chain for the environment and consumers, and thus, a better future.