The vision
There is significant potential to improve vineyard profitability by adopting innovative, efficient canopy systems.
The programme
The Next Generation Viticulture (NGV) programme is a seven-year project that aims to help growers improve vineyard profitability through the adoption of innovative, efficient canopy systems that drive cost reductions, improve yield consistency and performance, and advance sustainability, all while safeguarding and enhancing the premium wine quality New Zealand is renowned for.
Delivery
To deliver the NGV programme, seven vineyards will be actively involved in the development and trial of new growing configurations, and winemakers will ensure that wine style and quality is maintained or enhanced.
The science
The programme builds on concepts developed in the New Zealand kiwifruit, pipfruit and stonefruit industries. It will also leverage Plant & Food Research’s experience with new apple and cherry production systems.

Funding
The Government is co-investing $5.6 million over seven years in partnership with New Zealand Winegrowers and several vineyards, which are collectively investing $8.427 million in cash and in-kind.
The importance of government support
Government investment will enable research and implementation at a pace and focus that wouldn’t be possible for the industry alone to achieve.
If you’d like to get in touch about Next Generation Viticulture, please reach out to BRI’s Winegrowing Innovation Leader Ross Wise at ross.wise@bri.co.nz.
News and articles
Investigating alternative training systems to boost vineyard productivity – Vintage 2023 winemaking and sensory
Investigating alternative training systems to boost vineyard productivity – Flowering to harvest season 2022-23
