Manitoba Chamber of Commerce
Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1525613
PHYLLOXERA: Phylloxera is an insect native to North America. Vitis vinifera cannot defend itself from the effects caused by the insect. Inadvertently introduced to Europe in the late 1800s, the insect demolished European vineyards. It still has the potential to demolish billions worth of vines around the world today. The only vines that stand a chance to ward off the effects of this insect are American species or hybrids. This is why much of the world's vines are grafted onto the root stocks of American vines. Countries that have not yet experienced phylloxera's effects have been known to use quarantining practices as prevention. ABC Australia news highlighted this practice as early as 2015. eir story focused on specially trained dogs' ability to sniff out the destructive insect phylloxera. is insect was responsible for the historic destruction of European vines in the mid-late 1800's (France in 1860s). Left unmitigated, phylloxera continues to wreak havoc. It can do billions of dollars of damage. Discovering potentially destructive threats early bides time for the farmer to either remove the vine(s) to prevent diseases or infestation spreading or to allow for treatment if available. Bringing in specially trained dogs can be costly. But when swift action is vital, wineries may view the investment as a useful expense. Knowing how important canines are to the wine world, it's not surprising that wineries recognize the importance of sheer companionship. Your dog may not be on duty, but many wineries now allow them to accompany wine lovers to enjoy the tasting experience. By no means are the dogs allowed to imbibe — they're invited just to wag along. So, on your next tasting tour, ask about their dogs on duty. And if you'd like your pup to join, check first. For over a decade, reports have revealed that dogs have been trained to find diseases or infestations in vines. SAVOUR MANITOBA | FALL 24 41