VRIAACC PROJECT

Resistance to climate change begins with varieties

In 2011, three Catalan wineries allied to start a revolutionary project: to investigate and develop grape varieties that are more resistant to fungal pests, more drought tolerant, less dependent on classic vineyard treatments and with less impact on waste and emissions. For all this, with a better adaptation to the effects of climate change.

The new VRIAACC are obtained by floral crossing between different plants, such as our three iconic castes of cava: macabeu, xarel·lo and parellada. The main objective is to enhance plant skills that allow for genetic resistance to diseases caused by fungi (mildew, powdery mildew and botrytis or rot) and better adaptation to drought conditions.

The main objective is to enhance the vine’s abilities that allow it to gain genetic resistance to diseases

Although they are still in the study phase, the VRIAACCs have already shown significant improvements. For example, they offer savings on traditional viticulture costs: treatments such as copper and sulphur, fungicides, grape selection, field work, etc. All this makes it possible to lower costs and reduce CO₂ emissions. It is clear, therefore, the contribution to palliative measures of climate change. From the perspective of grape and wine quality, resistant varieties achieve slower and more balanced ripening and achieve differential oenological profiles, within a global concept of sustainability and respect.