Evaluation of innovative strategies in vineyard and cellar to mitigate the climate change effects – VINSACLIMA

Global warming simulations predict warmer temperatures and a general water scarcity, which heavily affect grape ripening. The adaptation of the management techniques to mitigate the effects of climate change constitutes a major challenge in viticulture. The main objective of the Project VINSACLIMA is to transfer innovative sustainable techniques to the farmers of the Emilia-Romagna Region, focusing on reducing vine susceptibility to abiotic (high temperature and radiation, drought) and biotic stress. Moreover, the project aims to control the decoupling between berry phenolic and technological maturity, improving grape and wine quality. In 2016, experiments were set on different cultivars to compare farm canopy management with the proposed innovative cultural practices (late pruning, late defoliation, late trimming and kaolin application) in different areas of Emilia-Romagna Region. First results obtained were in line with data reported in previous scientific contributions by the Research Group in AgroEcology of Bologna University, showing the benefits of adopting these canopy strategies. Accordingly, by an appropriate soil management along with suitable decisions on winter and summer pruning date and eventually, canopy-applied kaolin, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of visible water stress symptoms, even during warm seasons. Within VINSACLIMA, dissemination activity was performed among farmers, students and citizens through demonstrative experiments, meetings and conferences.