Eden Research targets Kiwi wine producers after receiving regulatory sign-off

Oxford-based sustainable biopesticide company Eden Research has set its sights on the wine producers of new Zealand after its Novellus biofungicide received regulatory approval.

The biofungicide tackles Botrytis cinerea – commonly known as bunch rot – which is responsible for significant crop loss and food waste in New Zealand vineyards.

It is particularly prevalent with the nation's most popular wine grape varietal, Sauvignon Blanc – comprising over two-thirds of New Zealand's wine production – where the berries grow very closely bunched together.

It is estimated that Botrytis bunch rot can have a financially destructive effect of up to $NZ 5,000 per hectare, with winegrowers typically spending $NZ 1,500 on fungal crop protection measures to prevent such losses.

Sipcam Oxon SpA has been appointed as the company's exclusive distributor of Novellus for the region, with product distribution expected to commence in time for its 2023/24 growing season.

Eden Research CEO Sean Smith said: "We are pleased to receive regulatory authorisation for Novellus in New Zealand, a prominent wine-growing nation with challenging grape growing conditions.

"Botrytis is a widespread problem amongst vineyard operators. We are proud to play a part in providing a sustainable solution to tackling this destructive fungal disease that can have a dramatic impact on crop yields and wine production.

"New Zealand is the second country in Oceania in which we now have a foothold, following Novellus' authorisation in Australia.

"Operating in these two Southern Hemisphere markets demonstrates Novellus' strong versatility and efficacy in working in various environments.

"We see good sales growth potential in this market and look forward to commencing marketing and distribution efforts with Sipcam."