HOW AI IS IMPACTING THE WINE INDUSTRY
ROSÉ TO ROBOTS:
HOW AI IS IMPACTING THE WINE INDUSTRY
Artificial intelligence( AI) is rapidly transforming many industries and viticulture is no exception. For wine producers and enthusiasts, AI offers advancements that enhance quality and streamline production.
THE SOMMELIER OF THE FUTURE? Wine grading has long been an integral part of the industry, with scores influencing purchasing decisions. Traditionally reliant on expert sommeliers and critics, the process is subjective and prone to personal bias. AI is transforming wine rating by providing more objective, consistent and scalable methods of evaluation. AI-based tasting systems use gas chromatography and electronic noses to analyse a wine’ s chemical composition. These systems can detect subtle flavour compounds, aromas and taste profiles that even experienced tasters might miss and then compare the chemical profiles with databases of previously top-rated wines. Using these techniques, the AI sommelier can predict quality and ageing potential with remarkable accuracy, and can help maintain consistency in grading by removing human subjectivity.
In addition to ratings, AI is taking on other roles traditionally fulfilled by sommeliers. By using machine learning, natural language processing and big-data analysis of online reviews, past purchases and user preferences, AI tools are increasingly being used to provide wine recommendations and to help both novices and enthusiasts discover new bottles that align with their tastes. The same tools are also helping wine producers make informed predictions about how well particular wines will be received by the market and how best to position them.
KATHRYN ROGERS
VINEYARD MANAGEMENT AI isn’ t just influencing sales, it’ s also transforming vineyard management, from disease detection and soil analysis to yield prediction. AI-powered precision farming helps vineyard owners manage vines and optimise grape production. Traditionally, vineyard managers relied on visual inspections and experience to detect pests, diseases and nutrient deficiencies. New AIenabled imaging systems linked to drones can now analyse plant health in real time and identify early signs of disease, allowing
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