Wine Australia supported ten members of the wine sector to participate in a workshop focused on grapevine viruses as part of the 24th Australasian Plant Pathology Society (APPS) Conference in Adelaide in November.
The workshop provided attendees with the latest knowledge on grapevine viruses in Australia, much of which comes from research funded by Wine Australia. Additionally, experts shared best practices for preventing the spread of viruses and managing affected vines.
The day opened with a grapevine virology 101 session hosted by Dr Fiona Constable from Agriculture Victoria, who discussed different types of grapevine viruses and how they affect varieties of winegrapes and table grapes. She also helped to explain the prevalence of each virus and where in Australia they tend to be found.
Researchers then shared their latest work on viruses including Grapevine Pinot Gris Virus and Shiraz Disease, covering the symptoms and spread around Australia. A common message emerged: a virus infection is for life – once a vine is infected, the only solution is to uproot and replant the vine.
The workshop also showcased a range of new technologies being developed for virus detection. Dr Monica Kehoe from Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA discussed the limitations of past testing methods and the strengths of the new technologies currently under development.
Dr Kehoe explained the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test, formerly the industry standard, was being traded in for PCR testing, due to its ease of use as well as its efficiency. PCR testing also allows experts to test for new strains of viruses, creating greater flexibility.
La Trobe University PhD candidate Kamalpreet Kaur discussed the detection and spread of Grapevine Red Blotch virus. The virus was first discovered in Australia last year, and likely entered the country via imports in the 1960’s and 1980’s. Fears were eased by the finding that spread has been limited, so there may not be a vector for it present in Australia.
Dr Kehoe and Ms Kaur discussed the symptoms of Red Blotch and the challenges in diagnosing the virus in different grapevine varieties. The detection further emphasised the importance of testing and detecting infected material both at the border and before planting in the vineyard.
Nick Dry provided an update on the National Grapevine Collection, highlighting its role in preventing the spread of grapevine viruses through vineyard virus sampling and diagnostic projects as well as vector management programs.
The workshop concluded with a discussion about developments in diagnostic test equipment and the future of innovation in grapevine virus testing.