About ADVICO
ADVICO is a collaborative platform that supports wine grape growers through practical research activities. Evolving from the GEN-Z Vineyard Project launched by Vinpro in 2016, the platform was created to bridge the gap between research and real-world vineyard application. By connecting growers, experts, researchers and industry partners, ADVICO drives practical solutions to the production challenges facing modern viticulture. Growers today must adapt to shifting climates, limited natural resources and increasing input costs. ADVICO supports this journey through research and demonstration to generate actionable, on-farm knowledge—enabling informed decision-making and more resilient vineyards across South Africa.
Our Focus
The platform centres on key themes that matter most to long-term vineyard sustainability: climate adaptation, efficient resource use, smart viticulture and suitability of cultivars, clones and rootstocks. Through collaborative learning and continuous field testing, ADVICO helps the industry compare approaches, evaluate new possibilities and refine existing practices.What We Do
ADVICO’s work is driven through four main pillars:Interplanting Demonstration Network
A national series of field demos that compare cultivars, clones and rootstocks to better understand their performance and suitability to different growing conditions.
Applied Research Projects
Research partnerships that address real viticulture challenges and develop practical, science-based solutions.
Support for Tertiary Institutions
Collaboration with universities and schools to support learning and grow the next generation of viticulture experts.
Knowledge Transfer
Practical learning through workshops, demo days, vineyard walks, digital resources and grower-focused communication—making research accessible, relevant and easy to apply.
Our Approach
ADVICO’s roots remain grounded in the hands-on demonstration model established by the GEN-Z Vineyard Project. Field sites hosted in commercial vineyards allow growers to see, compare and discuss different practices in a real farming context. This interactive, grower-led approach encourages shared learning and quickly highlights what works—and what doesn’t.Looking Forward
The platform continues to expand with new demo sites, emerging technologies and new partners. Insights from these initiatives are shared through the ADVICO platform and regional events, ensuring the entire industry benefits from collective learning.
