Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/155925
for cooling above the vine canopy, and comparing this with under-vine cooling with microsprinklers on drip lines and a control block with no cooling. The sprinklers are used after veraison, when temperatures reach or exceed 100°F. "We know that fruit can be negatively affected by extreme heat events," Merritt said. "If climate change is going to be an issue in the future, then we should fully understand vine cooling on a commercial scale and be well-informed for the next round of vineyard planting." The over-vine misting appears to provide the most cooling, but berry dehydration is reduced or prevented with both over- and under-vine cooling, compared with no cooling. TECHNOLOGY AND TRANSITION Merritt offered additional insights – and cautions – about investing in new technology. "Wherever you are in California, there's a chance what you try may not work," he said. "It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. We don't always succeed, but we'll take a risk if we think it will enhance quality." He also pointed out that employees are surprisingly quick to adapt to new technology. "There is a fear that it won't be understood and useable by employees, but the reality is, it is quickly adapted in the field. We're impressed by how adept our staff is at evolving and making positive changes." Discussing the need to continually evaluate and update, Merritt said, "Technology is a moving target. The latest and greatest thing today may not be practical in four or five years. The more we can use a technology, and the sooner we can extract value from it to get our money's worth, the easier it is for us to transition to newer and better technology." Ted Rieger , CSW, is a writer and photographer based in Sacramento, Calif., and has been a contributing editor for V&WM since 1990. Comments? Please e-mail us at feedback@vwmmedia.com. w w w. v w m media.com S e p t - O c t 2 0 13 | V I N E YA R D & W I N E RY M A N A G E M E N T 63