Napa Valley is known for its rich history and exceptional wines, but a changing climate has raised concerns about the future of the region’s wineries. To address these concerns, a new tool called Scout has been developed to help vineyards manage their crops more efficiently. As a computer scientist-turned-winemaker, Kia Behnia, co-owner of Neotempo Wines, has played a key role in the creation of Scout.
“Climate is by far the biggest threat to us, because we have no control over it; I call it climate chaos,”
said Behnia at a recent seminar in London, where he discussed the challenges facing Napa Valley wineries in an increasingly unpredictable climate.
Scout: An x-ray for vineyards
Scout is one of a new generation of vineyard management and wine industry tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Behnia described how Scout can process large amounts of data, including photographs, to provide insights on the health of individual vines.
- Scout can process large amounts of data, including photographs, to provide insights on the health of individual vines.
- It can be used for yield prediction, spotting early signs of disease or heat stress, and other tasks.
The tool uses machine learning algorithms to analyze data from various sources, including weather stations, soil sensors, and camera feeds from vineyards. This allows it to provide detailed insights into the condition of individual vines, which can help winemakers make informed decisions about their crops.
Farming for balance
Matt Taylor, winemaker at Ink Grade, highlighted the importance of marrying technology with other sustainability approaches. He spoke of his experience with organic, biodynamic, and regenerative farming, which have helped him build vines’ resilience to extreme weather events.
| Approach | Description |
|---|---|
| Organic | Uses natural methods to control pests and diseases, reducing chemical use. |
| Biodynamic | Focuses on the interconnectedness of the vineyard ecosystem, using natural preparations to promote soil health. |
| Regenerative | Involves practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. |
At Ink Grade, Taylor said the team takes a flexible approach based on reading vintage conditions, striving for elegance and balance reminiscent of Napa’s treasured wines of the past.
Terroir-driven wines
Lawrence Wine Estates’ CEO, Carlton McCoy Jr MS, and Burgundy winemaker Jeremy Seysses, have created a terroir-driven wine that is an homage to Napa Valley’s glory days of the 1960s and 1970s.
- The Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is described as a terroir-driven, age-worthy style.
- It is the inaugural, 2022-vintage wine produced by Lawrence Wine Estates.
This wine is a testament to the region’s ability to produce exceptional wines, even in challenging times. By embracing the unique characteristics of the terroir, winemakers can create wines that are not only delicious but also sustainable and resilient.
Napa Valley’s quest for a climate-resilient future
As the climate continues to change, Napa Valley wineries will need to adapt and innovate to ensure their long-term survival. With the help of tools like Scout, winemakers can gain a better understanding of their vineyards and make informed decisions about their crops. Napa Valley’s quest for a climate-resilient future will require a combination of technological innovation, sustainable practices, and a deep understanding of the region’s unique terroir.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Napa Valley’s quest for a climate-resilient future is a complex challenge that requires innovative solutions. By embracing technology, sustainable practices, and a deep understanding of the region’s terroir, winemakers can create wines that are not only delicious but also resilient and sustainable. The future of Napa Valley’s wineries will depend on their ability to adapt and innovate in the face of climate change.