The South Australian Government have announced the commencement of a new round in the vine resting trials that provides significant cost-saving opportunities for red wine grape growers. Through this initiative, initiated by the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven, growers can potentially save up to $2,000 per hectare on input, water, and management costs.
The trial is timed as the state’s wine industry grapples with an oversupply of red wine grapes, an issue that persists despite the recent lifting of tariffs on Australian wines in China. Growers facing a lack of contracts for the 2025 crop can opt for this trial to cut down on various management expenses.
State research by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), in partnership with Wine Australia, has led to the identification of Ethephon, a plant growth regulator effective at reducing crop yield to obviate the need for harvest. According to the research findings, Ethephon application allows for proper foliage maintenance—essential for the vine’s energy storage and preparation for the next season. It also eliminates the need for intensive fertigation, water application, disease management sprays, and other regular vineyard treatments.
An aspect of the trial also includes potential cost relief for growers, with a $40 rebate for each hectare of applied Ethephon, covering up to 1,000 hectares per ABN. This initiative is designed to support growers by mitigating the financial implications of reduced production while providing options that deter the permanent removal of vines.
A technical factsheet detailing the method, preferred application times, vineyard management considerations, and potential risks has been crafted by SARDI and the Australian Wine Research Institute for reference by interested growers.
This program aligns with broader efforts to support the wine sector amidst challenging times. This includes a $1.85 million strategy to reengage with the Chinese market, a $3.5 million viability support package from the Federal Labor Government, up to $1,500 direct support through the Rural Business Support Relief fund, and substantial allocations for financial planning and counselling for producers in the latest State Budget.
For more information on the vineyard resting trial and to apply, visit: pir.sa.gov.au/vineyard-resting.
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