From the 6th to the 8th of February, the Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment, and Forest Science & Technology of the University of Florence (UNIFI) hosted the MONTEVITIS Consortium Meeting, a meeting aimed at consolidating efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change’s impact on viticulture, with a particular focus on Montenegro.

The MONTEVITIS consortium members converged in Florence to exchange expertise, ideas, and innovative solutions geared towards addressing the challenges posed by climate change in viticulture. The meeting fostered a collaborative environment where consortium members showcased the activities carried out under each of the project’s Work Packages and planned the next steps to be taken.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the project’s second workshop focusing on regional grapevine climate change adaptation methodologies. The workshop served as a platform for sharing best practices and exploring strategies to combat the adverse effects of climate change on grape cultivation. Additionally, a staff exchange delved into the complexities of abiotic and biotic stressors in viticulture, seeking to identify effective mitigation measures.

A highpoint of the gathering was a site visit to the Frescobaldi winery, where participants had the opportunity to witness firsthand innovative approaches to sustainable viticulture. The visit underscored the importance of practical, on-the-ground solutions in the fight against climate change.
Following the field trip’s conclusion, participants were treated to a wine and olive oil tasting session at one of Tuscany’s oldest wine-producer farms

Throughout the meeting, lively discussions played a crucial role in shaping the project’s direction. The MONTEVITIS members worked together to define the next steps and prioritize research initiatives for the upcoming year, leveraging the collective wisdom and experience of the consortium. As MONTEVITIS entered its second year, the Consortium Meeting in Florence served as a driving force for continued progress and innovation. With a shared commitment to combating climate change, partners and stakeholders remain united in their pursuit of a more sustainable future for viticulture.