Peter Lehman wines adopted a new cooling technology, Climate Wizard, in 2011 when the wine industry was suffering through one of the worst economic situations on record. The technology, was presented by industrial refrigeration specialists, Cold Logic, proved to be a success and is now considered to be the beginning for pioneering change for how barrels are stored in the industry.

At a time when capital investment was extremely tight, the Climate Wizard system was
considered for having strong commercial merits, which included raising wine quality, reducing angels’ share and improving energy efficiency.

“Back in 2011, it was real tough to get new projects off the ground. But when we saw the performance of Climate Wizard, we had to make the approach to Peter Lehmann Wines because the business case stacked up,” says Eddie Lane, Partner at Cold Logic.

The scope of the project was significant, in size and ambition. Prior to this, only one Climate Wizard unit had been used for barrel hall storage in the wine industry; the Peter Lehmann Wines project required 12. It took 3 years of technical due diligence, testing and planning to get the go ahead with the large project.

Transforming, what many barrel hall storage facilities are, well insulated sheds, into a new commercial advantage for Peter Lehmann Wines, was instantly realised. Barrel hall storage (for the first time) enjoyed consistent temperature while maintaining an effective temperature and humidity range.

“We have a 30 year relationship with Peter Lehmann Wines, so we were ecstatic with the feedback we received, from the winemaker and the data logs. Eddie Lane continues, “During the first summer, the feedback from the winery was that there was a noticeable difference with improvement in colour and flavour intensity.”

Another unique benefit of the Climate Wizard system has been the angels’ share decrease, with a reduction in topping up across 2,000 barrels. Based on a production cost of $15 per litre for higher end wine makers, these improvements in productivity proved to be significant for bottom line results.

Top line revenue earnings also come into play, with improved quality comes better marketability of the product, protecting the sale price from erosion. Climate Wizard evens the playing field against European competitors who enjoy natural advantages, with underground storage facilities dating back hundreds of years and the use of caves. For harsh, dry conditions like Australia, the technology vastly improves the consistency of the storage, with a focus on quality and minimised loses.

Another key benefit from Climate Wizard is its ultra-low power use. For wineries nearing their limits for energy, this avoids the need to invest in new power infrastructure. Those who want to present environmental credentials can point to minimal power use for cooling and producing fresh air, free of chemicals, to keep their barrel hall at a consistent temperature.

Cold Logic’s Eddie Lane sees a very positive impact across the wine industry, “We have a number of clients now really keen to install Climate Wizard. From other installations, the results are consistently positive so I’m excited to see the impact this technology has. I honestly believe Climate Wizard will help our industry raise the quality of wine, while making wineries stronger financially, by generating higher quality wine at a lower cost.”

For more Climate Wizard Supercool details, contact Michael Hamilton, Commercial Sales General Manager, Seeley International at [email protected] or on 0416 222 460.