17/02/2023

Wildfires can have a significant impact on the bulk wine industry, including the loss of crops, reduced quality of grapes, and increased cost of production. These factors can lead to a reduction in the supply of bulk wine, higher prices for grapes and bulk wine, and a potential shift in the demand for different types of wine.

PREVENTION

Bulk wine producers can take a number of steps to prepare for wildfires and MINIMIZE the potential impact on their crops and production. Some of these steps include:

1) Creating a wildfire response plan

Bulk wine producers should develop a detailed wildfire response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a fire. This plan should include evacuation procedures for workers and equipment, as well as measures to protect crops and facilities from fire damage.

2) Installing fire prevention measures

Producers can take steps to prevent wildfires from starting on their properties, such as clearing debris and maintaining a defensible space around vineyards and facilities. Installing fire-resistant roofing and siding on buildings can also help protect them from fire damage.

3) Monitoring weather conditions

Bulk wine producers should closely monitor weather conditions, particularly during wildfire season, and be prepared to take action if conditions become dangerous. This may include temporarily halting outdoor activities such as harvesting or spraying.

4) Investing in smoke detection and filtration systems

Smoke from wildfires can have a significant impact on the quality of grapes and wine. Bulk wine producers can invest in smoke detection and filtration systems to help detect and remove smoke particles from the air.

5) Maintaining a good relationship with insurance providers

Producers should ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage in the event of fire damage to their crops or facilities. Maintaining a good relationship with insurance providers can help expedite the claims process and ensure that producers receive the compensation they need to recover from fire-related losses.

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DAMAGE CONTROL

By taking these and other proactive measures, bulk wine producers can be better prepared to respond if a fire does occur. In the aftermath of a wildfire, bulk wine producers may need to take several steps to assess the damage and begin the process of recovery. Here are some actions that can be taken:

1) Assess the damage

Producers should assess the damage to their crops and facilities, and determine the extent of the losses. This can include examining the vines and grapes for signs of damage and assessing the quality of the grapes and wine that were exposed to smoke and other fire-related conditions.

2) Develop a recovery plan

Once the damage has been assessed, bulk wine producers should develop a recovery plan. This may include identifying the steps needed to salvage crops and wine, and determining what equipment and resources will be needed to complete the recovery process.

3) Salvage what can be saved 

Depending on the extent of the damage, producers may be able to salvage some of their crops and wine. This can involve testing grapes and wine for smoke taint, and separating any affected crops from those that are still usable. Producers may also need to take steps to prevent any remaining crops from being further damaged by smoke, ash, or other contaminants.

4) Communicate with buyers and partners

Producers should communicate with their buyers and partners about the impact of the wildfire on their operations, and provide updates on the recovery process. This can help build trust and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.

5) Consider options for financial assistance

In some cases, bulk wine producers may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the costs of recovery. This can include insurance coverage for crop or property damage, or government programs designed to support farmers and producers affected by natural disasters.

6) Take steps to prevent future wildfires

To reduce the risk of future wildfires, bulk wine producers can take steps to prevent fires from starting on their properties, and implement measures to protect their crops and facilities from fire damage.

By taking these and other steps, bulk wine producers can begin the process of recovery after a wildfire, and work to minimize the long-term impact of the fire on their operations.

Another option is to stay close to the community and associations that face similar hazards.

IBWSS 

International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show is an annual trade event and conference which takes place in San Francisco, CA. IBWSS visitors are buyers looking to meet up their demand for bulk wines, bulk spirits, private label programs, grape buying, or contract manufacturing.

Register here. 

IBWSS exhibitors are wineries and distilleries looking to sell bulk wine and spirits, producers and negociants who offer contract manufacturing / private label programs, and wineries/distilleries/importers who have one-time excess stock to clear. IBWSS buyers are other wineries and distilleries looking to meet their demand, Importers, Retailers, Distributors looking for private label programs, and negociants who are looking to meet growers and producers.

The last 25 exhibitor spots are left.  

You can also learn from some of the most influential professionals in the beverage industry at the IBWSS educational conference. These presentations from industry leaders on today's principal ideas on marketing, sales, and distribution will challenge and inspire you to grow your private label, bulk wine, and bulk spirits business.

The conference will have some of the leading speakers delivering TED-Style Talks over 2 days where speakers will give you an insight into what strategies and standards the industry's top thinkers are using to shape the marketplace around you. 

Get your passes now.

Header Image Source: istockphoto

Written by Stuti Khetan, Beverage Trade Network