A huge Cabernet trial is underway in California, encompassing 100 clone/rootstock combinations and covering 3.5 acres. Researchers designed it to help identify genetic variations that impart a greater resilience to climate change — notably, improved drought tolerance that will enable more effective and sustainable water-use practices while also producing high-quality fruit and wine. 

Using more mechanization in a vineyard -- beyond just mechanical harvesting -- can reduce labor costs without negatively affecting grape quality, according to a presentation Wednesday at the Vineyard Economics Symposium. It might even make the grapes better.