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Australian Viticulture was founded by Winetitles in 1997 to meet the specific needs of Australia's grapegrowers. Our articles feature the latest information on viticultural technology from research centres around the country, all clearly and precisely presented by staff and contributors who are experts in the field. We aim to help our readers face the challenges of a changing industry.

Our current issue...

The May/June issue of Australia’s only journal dedicated to viticulture, Australian Viticulture, is proud to present the Australian Winegrape Outlook paper 2008-2012, the annual update on supply and demand for winegrapes, prepared by McGrath-Kerr Business Consultants Pty Ltd and produced by Winetitles for Wine Grape Growers’ Australia. This paper provides detailed statistical insight to the projected status of Australia’s vineyards taken from ABARE data, the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation and the ABS.

Australia’s vine improvement bodies are currently going through a process of change, and Sonya Logan spoke with the sector’s main players to report on the proposed national body, aiming to set new standards for core vine improvement activities.

This issue’s Varietal Report focuses on Durif, and we present the story of Morris Wines, considered to be pioneers of the variety in Australia. Some of Australia’s Durif growers share their stories of triumph with a variety that is renowned for the challenges it presents in the vineyard.

Vineyard development and redevelopment is a major focus of this issue, and we present the advice of Tony Hoare, of Hoare Consulting, in McLaren Vale, about the use of soil surveys for new vineyards to maximise uniformity. Brown Brothers viticultural technical officer, Catherine Anderson, presents a case study of the company’s extensive experience with redevelopment of existing vineyards.

Langhorne Creek growers are grappling with severe drought conditions, exasperated by their main water source, Lake Alexandrina, increasing in salinity. Lauren Jones spoke with the leaders of the proposed water pipeline project as part of a feature about the region’s environmental activities.

Also in this issue, we present the latest research results on the topic of smoke taint. After a recent visit to Cental Otago, New Zealand Mark Smith tells the tale of Felton Road’s conversion to biodynamic grapegrowing.

Many growers may now be considering purchasing new vineyard machinery for the next season, and there is a great depth of information available about the new models on the market, and some interesting stories about growers’ own inventions.

For further information about Australian Viticulture or to secure your copy of the May/June issue, featuring other timely practical information visit www.winebiz.com.au/ausvit/ or telephone Winetitles on +618 8292 0888.