Author: Riccardo Iacobone
Artificial intelligence (AI) is an arm of computer science concerned with building intelligent machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. Through the use of machine learning and deep learning, AI is changing many sectors of the economy. Similar to the human brain, AI learns from experience by using advanced algorithms and software to identify patterns or features contained in large amounts of data.
Artificial intelligence plays a central role in the digital transformation of societies and is now a priority. Its future applications could lead to big changes, such as in vineyards, wineries, and for distribution.
Vineyards
Regarding the application of AI in vineyards, the software provides valuable information on, for example, the size, yield and other conditions of the vineyards. Artificial intelligence, together with data received from sensors and images, enables winemakers to improve many aspects of vineyard row management.
For example, classify vineyards by grape variety (distinguish grape variety by observing fruit characteristics, berry, cluster shape, berry size, shape and color, seed, skin type , taste, etc.).
This technology, when properly fused with others, leads to many advantages. It can collect, interpret and learn from the data collected, helping farmers make decisions based on facts and predictions.
The winery
In wineries, AI collects data received from sensors and uses it to improve production. Real-time monitoring of inventory and production conditions enables optimal production scheduling. This can help wineries maximize their productivity and can contribute to more sustainable production.
With the information received about barrel conditions, AI can determine or predict wine quality, to track the maturation process in barrels, and perform sensory analysis of fermentation products (acids). This can directly affect the productivity of the winery, saving time and money.
Distribution
In the last stage of the chain, wine marketers use AI to reach the end customer, changing the way consumers buy wine by understanding product preferences and generating direct channels to the end customer.
An interesting use in marketing is with virtual reality applications and devices, commonly called “wine tourism.” This can be promoted through these applications. Consumers can participate in virtual reality wine tastings, where, for example, by wearing VR glasses, they can be immersed in the vineyard or winery while tasting different wines in the comfort of their own home. This could generate new opportunities for the wine sector. Potentially, it could attract investors interested in developing this technology, as well as new customers open to this type of experience. Another example of potentially interesting AI technology is the “virtual sommelier,” which makes recommendations based on the preferences of individual consumers.
More and more wineries are converting to this technology, which allows producers and consumers to make fewer mistakes from a human perspective.
