Overview
RuralSmart was established by Dr Richard Smart, one of the world’s best-known viticulturists. RuralSmart has used this expertise to develop a range of products, targeted at vineyards.
Along with the remote sensing and soil moisture monitoring products, RuralSmart offers field-based data collection services targeted at yield forecasting, vineyard grading and pruning weight collection.
Vineyard managers may choose any or all elements of the RuralSmart Vineyard Program to enhance their management programs. However, while not absolutely essential, we highly recommend using the aerial image as a base for further monitoring.
Canopy Management and Vineyard Classification
Vine canopy growth holds the key to wine quality. Through the research of Dr Smart and others, canopy features indicating potential wine quality have been identified. These have been incorporated into RuralSmart’s field canopy assessment protocols.
The two systems developed are canopy assessment and vineyard classification.
Canopy assessment provides managers with feedback on their canopies and vine balance.
Vineyard grading uses additional measurements to come up with a grade based on potential wine quality. This system has successfully been used for allocating grapes to different labels, and also for setting grape pricing.
Both systems are template based, and when carried out by RuralSmart trained field staff, can be used to compare vineyards within regions and between seasons.
Yield Forecasting
Yield forecasting can be improved using the RuralSmart system. This has been developed in conjunction with the latest research into key attributes and dates to measure.
Pruning Weights
Pruning weights are a commonly used measure of vine vigour. RuralSmart offers pruning weight assessment.
Viticultural Consulting
RuralSmart is able to offer general viticultural consulting services.
Dr Richard Smart has had over 40 years in the viticulture industry, and has worked as a consultant around the globe. Working with Reuben Wells, Dr Smart can provide consultation on all aspects of your vineyard requirements.
For more information please download the RuralSmart Vineyard Program brochure (requires a pdf viewer such as Adobe Reader).
