Embracing Innovation: How BioScout is Revolutionising Disease Management at Tamburlaine Organic Wines
At Tamburlaine Organic Wines, sustainability isn't just a buzzword, it's the core of everything we do. As Australia's largest independent organic wine producer, with vineyards spanning the Hunter Valley and Orange regions, we're constantly seeking ways to harmonise cutting-edge technology with our eco-conscious ethos. That's why we're thrilled to share our experience with BioScout, an AI-powered disease detection system that's helping us stay ahead of potential threats while minimising our environmental footprint.
Our Journey with BioScout
It all started when BioScout approached us about trailing one of their units for 12 months. Impressed by the results, we've since expanded to three units, one in each of our vineyards across Hunter Valley and Orange. These devices are strategically placed to monitor airborne pathogens, giving us real-time insights into disease risks without the need for constant manual intervention.
BioScout's technology works by drawing in air through a weathervane-equipped unit that always faces the wind, maximising spore collection. The collected Spores are captured in the unit and examined under a real time microscope with images uploaded to the cloud and interpreted via the AI computer, detecting and quantifying the spores, measuring them per square meter, and applying sophisticated models to predict risks. We've integrated a user-friendly traffic light system to indicate tolerance levels: green for low risk, amber for caution, and red for immediate action. This setup allows us to address issues proactively, often before any visible symptoms appear in the vines.
The Benefits: Efficiency, Sustainability, and Peace of Mind
Adopting BioScout has been a game-changer for our operations. By providing early warnings on primarily Powdery Mildew and Downy Mildew diseases as well as secondarily Eutypa and Botryosphaeria, common threats in vineyards, the system helps us optimise our responses. This means fewer preventative sprays, reduced water usage, and targeted pest control, all of which save time and energy. In an industry where timing is everything, getting ahead of outbreaks not only protects our yields but also aligns perfectly with our commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention.
The eco-conscious design of BioScout resonates deeply with our values at Tamburlaine. By enabling precise, data-driven decisions, we're reducing chemical inputs and promoting healthier ecosystems in our vineyards. It's technology that supports regenerative agriculture, ensuring our wines remain pure and sustainable from vine to bottle.
Learning from Leaders: Collaboration with Cloudy Bay
We're not alone in recognising BioScout's potential. Renowned New Zealand winery Cloudy Bay has been using the system for 3-4 years, incorporating it into their vineyards for AI-driven spore monitoring and precise treatments. We've been working closely with them to exchange insights on what works best, from integration strategies to interpreting data in varying climates. This collaboration has been invaluable, helping us refine our approach and maximise the benefits for our unique Australian terroirs.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to innovate, BioScout stands out as a prime example of how technology can enhance organic viticulture. It's not just about protecting our crops—it's about building a more resilient, sustainable future for wine production. If you're a fellow grower or wine enthusiast curious about these advancements, we encourage you to explore BioScout's offerings and see how they might fit into your world.
Stay tuned for more updates from Tamburlaine Organic Wines, where tradition meets tomorrow. Cheers to healthy vines and exceptional wines!
