Maximising water use efficiency in vineyards and wineries
Water use efficiency (WUE) means applying the available water effectively and efficiently, to get the best possible return on its use. WUE can be expressed as grape yield per the amount of water applied (tonnes/ML) or wine produced per the amount of water applied (kL wine/kL water).
For both vineyards and wineries, sound management of water resources is essential. In vineyards, efficient irrigation can add value by increasing grape yield, whilst also increasing the quality of the wine grape.
In winery operations, where most of the water is used in once-through cleaning processes, reducing water use can save money. By conducting a site ‘water use’ audit, training staff, retrofitting equipment and investigating recycling opportunities, wineries may be able to reduce water use by over 25%.
Though the Australian wine industry operates in a range of climates, soil types and other environmental conditions, there are still some general issues and rules of thumb that are relevant to all areas.
For both vineyards and wineries, sound management of water resources is essential. In vineyards, efficient irrigation can add value by increasing grape yield, whilst also increasing the quality of the wine grape.
In winery operations, where most of the water is used in once-through cleaning processes, reducing water use can save money. By conducting a site ‘water use’ audit, training staff, retrofitting equipment and investigating recycling opportunities, wineries may be able to reduce water use by over 25%.
Though the Australian wine industry operates in a range of climates, soil types and other environmental conditions, there are still some general issues and rules of thumb that are relevant to all areas.