Victor Rico, speaker at Wine Innova Tech, Valparaiso Region, Chile

Bridging Silicon Valley, Deep Tech, and the Chilean Terroir

Victor Rico was a keynote at Wine Innova Tech 2024 at the Palacio Rioja in Viña del Mar, Valparaíso Region. We sat down with Victor Rico to discuss his vision for the future of the industry.

What is your personal and professional connection to wine?

My connection to wine has evolved throughout my life and career, deeply influenced by the viticultural cultures of Northern California—specifically Sonoma and Napa—having lived and studied in Silicon Valley. It is also rooted in my heritage as a native of Chihuahua, in Northern Mexico.

Since I was a child, I watched my grandparents and parents enjoy wine during meals as part of a deep-seated family tradition. In fact, it was my parents, who are great fans of Chilean wines, who first introduced me to the world of viticulture.

During my university years, one of my favorite pastimes was visiting local vineyards, which sparked my formal education in the industry. Today, I am a member of several Texas vineyards, which we visit as a family on weekends. Through my participation in events like Wine Innova Tech 2024, I can share and expand my knowledge of technological innovations while collaborating with experts and aficionados, further enriching my understanding of the global trade.

Regarding the intersection of wine and technology, do you believe the industry needs greater access to AI or Deep Tech?

Absolutely. I believe the wine industry stands to benefit enormously from advanced developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deep Tech. These technologies can optimize vineyard management, refine fermentation processes, and revolutionize marketing and sales through predictive analytics and consumer personalization.

AI can help us better predict harvests and manage natural resources more efficiently—a crucial factor in an industry so dependent on fluctuating climatic conditions.

How specifically can these innovations transform the industry?

My interest lies in how innovation can enrich the entire value chain. For instance, AI can optimize vineyard management by analyzing climate and soil data to make informed decisions regarding irrigation and fertilization. It can also assist in grape selection, ensuring only the highest quality fruit is harvested at the optimal moment.

Furthermore, Big Data and predictive analysis allow us to understand consumer preferences and market trends with much higher accuracy. Integrating AI and Deep Tech doesn’t just increase efficiency and sustainability; it ultimately elevates the quality and enjoyment of the wine for the final consumer.

Looking at your personal cellar, which countries and varietals are your favorites?

I enjoy wines from many regions, with particular favorites coming from France, Italy, Spain, the United States, and of course, Chile and Mexico.

In terms of varietals, I have a particular affinity for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot due to their complexity and body. However, I also greatly enjoy Tempranillo and Carménère, as they beautifully reflect the richness and diversity of the terroir in their respective regions.

For more information, contact: andes@andeswines.com