Advancing Sustainable Viticulture: MONTEVITIS Consortium Meeting and Workshops
On 10-12 December 2024, MONTEVITIS brought together researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers in Vila Real and the Douro Wine Region in Portugal to collaborate on innovative approaches to climate-smart viticulture. Over three days, participants and project partners engaged in in-depth discussions, shared the research results and expectations, and explored the practical applications for adapting European vineyards to climate change. The events were hosted by the Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD).
On the first day, the MONTEVITIS consortium meeting took place. The event set the stage for the following days. Held on December 10 at UTAD’s Edifício da Reitoria, the meeting brought together MONTEVITIS project partners to assess progress across work packages and strategize for the future. Presentations by the WP leaders provided updates on various aspects of the project, including advancements in precision viticulture technologies, sustainable vineyard management, and the integration of climate data into decision-making. This meeting was not only an opportunity to review progress but also a chance to identify areas for the upcoming year, ensuring that MONTEVITIS continues to reach impactful results throughout the whole project duration.
The following day, December 11, participants travelled to the Douro Wine Region for a “Precision Viticulture in European Vineyards as a Tool for Climate Change Adaptation” workshop. The event started with a series of presentations, including opening remarks by João Santos (VineAdapt2Climate) and Marko Simeunović (MONTEVITIS). Industry leaders from Symington and Esporão shared case studies that highlighted real-world applications of precision viticulture technologies. A lively panel discussion followed the presentations, providing a platform for participants to exchange ideas and share strategies for climate adaptation. In the second part of the day, the participants got a chance to visit Quinta do Bomfim, where attendees explored sustainable winemaking practices firsthand. Against the backdrop of the Douro Valley landscapes, participants explored how the local producers are integrating innovative techniques to address environmental challenges
The final day, December 12, featured a thematic seminar titled “Perspectives for Climate-Smart Viticulture in Europe.” Held at UTAD’s Escola de Ciências da Vida e do Ambiente, the seminar showcased the latest research and advanced technologies designed to support sustainable vineyard management. André Fonseca of UTAD presented high-resolution modeling techniques that predict vineyard phenology under future climate scenarios, while Raul Morais and Joaquim Sousa shared how AI-driven tools and UAV imaging are revolutionizing precision viticulture. Additional presentations addressed the impact of aridity on grapevine growth and the implications of climate change for vineyards in Extremadura. During the discussion session, participants shared their perspectives on how the project can continue to support innovation and bring impact to the industry.
The three-day event was full of insights and discussions, demonstrating the strength of collaboration and the critical role of research in addressing climate challenges. By uniting experts from diverse fields, MONTEVITIS has reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a sustainable future for viticulture.
