About
VinPilot is a comprehensive wine cellar automation platform developed by WFT GmbH in Austria, designed to help winemakers achieve the perfect fermentation process using state-of-the-art technology. It is used by wineries globally, including high-profile operations like Viña Cono Sur, Nederburg, and Winzer Krems. The system integrates a suite of hardware and software solutions covering every critical aspect of fermentation management. Temperature control systems regulate tank conditions with precision, while automatic sugar-measuring devices (Radar) continuously monitor Brix levels without manual intervention. The PSync module enables synchronization across fermentation vessels, and Micro/Macro-oxygenation tools allow winemakers to fine-tune oxygen exposure for improved wine structure and mouthfeel. Additional process modules include Pump Over (Remontage), Pulse-Air (Pneumatage), air humidification, and automated red wine aeration — each designed to reduce labor while increasing repeatability and quality. A centralized Software & App ties all systems together, giving cellar masters real-time visibility and remote control over fermentation parameters from any device. VinPilot is ideal for mid-to-large-scale wine producers seeking to modernize operations, reduce human error, and consistently produce high-quality vintages. The platform supports multiple languages and regions, making it a truly global solution for the wine industry.
Key Features
- Precision Temperature Control: Automated temperature regulation across fermentation tanks ensures optimal conditions throughout the entire winemaking process.
- Automatic Sugar Measuring (Radar): Continuously measures sugar/Brix levels in real time without manual sampling, reducing labor and increasing accuracy.
- Micro & Macro-Oxygenation: Controlled oxygen dosing at micro and macro levels allows winemakers to shape wine structure, tannin development, and mouthfeel.
- Pump Over & Pneumatage Automation: Automated Remontage (pump over) and Pulse-Air (Pneumatage) systems manage cap management for red wines consistently and efficiently.
- Unified Software & App: A centralized dashboard and mobile app provide real-time monitoring and remote control of all fermentation parameters across the cellar.
Use Cases
- Automating temperature regulation across multiple fermentation tanks in a large commercial winery to ensure consistent wine quality.
- Using the Radar automatic sugar measuring system to continuously track Brix levels during fermentation without manual sampling.
- Applying micro-oxygenation to red wines during fermentation to improve tannin integration and wine structure.
- Managing cap punch-down and pump-over schedules automatically via Remontage and Pneumatage systems to free up cellar staff.
- Monitoring and controlling all winery fermentation parameters remotely through the VinPilot mobile app during harvest season.
Pros
- Comprehensive End-to-End Automation: Covers the full fermentation workflow — from temperature and sugar control to oxygenation and aeration — in a single integrated platform.
- Global Track Record: Trusted by prominent wineries on multiple continents, demonstrating reliability and scalability across diverse wine production environments.
- Multi-Language Support: Available in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible to winemakers across Europe and South America.
Cons
- Quote-Based Pricing: No public pricing is available; wineries must request a custom quote, making it harder to budget without direct contact.
- Hardware Dependency: The platform requires proprietary hardware installations in the cellar, which may involve significant upfront investment and setup time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VinPilot?
VinPilot is a wine fermentation control and process automation system developed by WFT GmbH in Austria. It provides wineries with hardware and software tools to monitor and automate every stage of fermentation.
What types of wineries is VinPilot designed for?
VinPilot is designed for mid-to-large-scale wine producers looking to automate and optimize their cellar operations. It has been deployed at prominent wineries worldwide, including Viña Cono Sur, Nederburg, and Winzer Krems.
What fermentation processes does VinPilot automate?
VinPilot automates temperature control, sugar measurement, micro/macro-oxygenation, pump over (Remontage), Pulse-Air (Pneumatage), air humidification, and red wine aeration.
Is there a mobile app for VinPilot?
Yes, VinPilot includes a Software & App component that allows winemakers to monitor and control fermentation parameters remotely from mobile devices.
How do I get pricing for VinPilot?
VinPilot uses a quote-based pricing model. You can request a custom quote directly through their website at vinpilot.com or by contacting them at [email protected].
