肆客足球

A book by two Stellenbosch 肆客足球 soil scientists that provides tips on how the grape industry can ensure sustainable soil preparation has been international recognized by the vitivinicultural wine publishing world. It was written by Dr Johan van Zyl, an extraordinary professor in soil science in the Faculty of AgriSciences, and Dr Eduard Hoffman of the SU Department of Soil Science.

Their book, Soil preparation for sustainable wine and table grape production, was named as a category winner in the 2020 International Organisation of Vine and Wine's OIV Awards. In all, 19 OIV Awards and 10 OIV Special Mentions in 11 categories were presented to websites, books and works of reference from 25 countries. The 2020 Awards mark 90 years since the creation of the awards.

The duo's book received top honours in the sustainable vitiviniculture category. Among the other categories are history, viticulture, oenology and vitivinicultural law.

Soil preparation for sustainable wine and table grape production contains practical knowledge and research findings that have been accumulated on the essence of soil preparation over the past 100 years by the wine and table grape industries. The book is not only a wealth of practical information, but the authors also take trouble to explain the reasoning and background behind recommendations and provide experimental evidence in support.

Soil profile modification takes into account root distribution, which is a prerequisite for high and sustainable grapevine performance.

“It is critical for research results to be communicated to industry to contribute to sustainability and profitability in their businesses," Gerard Martin, executive manager for Winetech, said in a press statement at the time of the launch.

According to lead author Dr van Zyl, South African vineyard soils are mostly shallow and quite acidic. As a consequence, these soils must be modified (prepared) before vineyards can be successfully established and yield sustainably in the long run.

“This is why South Africa has been a world leader in the discipline of soil preparation for many years," he noted.

The award came as a lovely surprise to the authors. Dr Hoffman says: “It is incredible recognition for work that has been done over especially the past 20 years on the subject. Prof Leopoldt van Huyssteen's research back then on the subject received international acclaim and ensure alot of interest."

The soil science duo will receive their award during a virtual ceremony, expected at the end of November.

For enquiries on the book, contact lucinda@winetech.co.za.