Castilla y León Food Industry Association (Vitartis)  has taken a significant step towards sustainability in viticulture by launching the innovative 'GO Mycowine’ project. In collaboration with IDForest and six renowned wineries from Castilla y León and La Rioja, this project aims to promote a sustainable vineyard management model that ensures the production of high-quality wines in a climate change scenario.

Participating Wineries

The wineries in 'GO Mycowine' include prominent names such as Matarromera, Yllera, Pago de Carraovejas, Fariña, Pradorey, and Bodegas Bilbaínas. These wineries, recognized for their commitment to quality and sustainability, will collaborate to develop a best practices manual and create a proprietary certification seal for sustainable soil management in their vineyards.

Vitartis, IDForest, and Six Wineries from Castilla y León and La Rioja promote a sustainable vineyard management model for high-quality wine production.

Objectives of 'GO Mycowine' Project

The main objective of 'GO Mycowine' is to promote sustainability in viticulture and enhance vineyard resilience to the effects of climate change. This will be achieved by implementing innovative techniques previously tested by IDForest on various crops. The project’s launch event, titled “The  Future of Viticulture: Innovation in the Face of Climate Change”, highlighted the importance of these techniques in modern viticulture.

Innovation in Viticulture: Sustainable Techniques

IDForest, a biotechnology laboratory specialized in fungi, conducts genetic soil analyses to identify and isolate beneficial microorganisms that can support the vineyard. Once identified, these microorganisms will be multiplied and introduced into other vineyard sections. The approach focuses on increasing the presence of mycorrhizal fungi, which are essential for helping plants manage thermal stress, withstand drought, and combat pathogens.

Funding and Institutional Support

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPA) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural  Development (EAFRD) support this ambitious project financially. Thanks to this funding, wineries will work on selected plots that present various challenges, ranging from vineyards with specific issues to areas with greater production potential.

A practical approach to the project

As part of the initiative, each winery will dedicate one of its plots to wine production using the sustainable techniques developed by IDForest. This practical approach will provide not only valuable insights into the effectiveness of the new methodologies but also serve as an example for other wineries in the region to follow.

Monitoring and project outcomes

A critical aspect of the project is the detailed monitoring of progress and results over time. This systematic tracking is expected to culminate in the creation of a “Practical  Manual on Sustainable Viticulture”, providing guidelines and recommendations for implementing sustainable practices in wine production.

Development of a Sustainable Management Seal

Furthermore, a proprietary sustainable soil management seal will be developed to certify wineries that adopt microbiological biodiversity-based techniques. This seal will not only serve as a strategic advantage but also inform consumers about the sustainable practices used in producing their favorite wines.

Impact of climate change on viticulture

Climate change represents one of the greatest challenges for agriculture, and viticulture is no exception. High temperatures, drought, and extreme weather events are affecting wine production in many regions. Projects like “Go Mycowine” are essential to ensure wineries adaptation and thrive in this new environment.

Sustainability and quality in wine production

Sustainability is not only about preserving the environment but is also closely tied to wine quality. By adopting sustainable management practices, wineries can improve soil and vine health, leading to higher-quality wine with a richer and more complex flavor profile. Consumers are increasingly interested in products that are not only of high quality but also ethically and sustainably produced.

Conclusions and future perspectives

'GO Mycowine' project represents a proactive response to the challenges of climate change in viticulture. Through collaboration between Vitartis, IDForest, and the participating wineries, the project aims to establish a new standard in sustainable vineyard management. The development of a best practices manual and a sustainable management seal will not only enhance the reputation of the participating wineries but also strengthen the wine sector in Spain.

A sustainable future for viticulture in Spain

The Spanish wine industry is expected to position itself as a benchmark for high-quality wine production as more wineries adopt sustainable practices, aligning economic profitability with environmental responsibility. 'GO Mycowine' initiative marks the beginning of a broader movement toward sustainability in agriculture and food production.