January 16, 2025 R&D Committee Meeting – Dr. Simone Castellarin, UBC- Okanagan

Remote sensing technique to determine intra-vineyard variations in vigour and fruit quality

Within vineyards, the variation in soil characteristics results in different vine vigour and physiological responses, leading to variability in yield and grape quality. Precision viticulture strategies can potentially manage these intra-vineyard variations. In a study conducted over multiple seasons in Gewürztraminer and Riesling vineyards in the Okanagan Valley, researchers investigated the variation of vine performance (vigour, nutrient status, photosynthesis, yield) and grape quality (TSS, TA, pH, aroma). This presentation will include the results of the study and strategies for using remote sensing technology as an efficient approach for estimating vine vigor and aromas in vineyards, enabling the production of distinct wine styles under selective harvest.