A major study by the University of Hohenheim shows that, although new grape varieties significantly reduce the use and cost of plant protection products, their cultivation remains very limited.
Source: Journal of Wine Economics | Image: Unsplash
Do we still remember? Piwis (Pilzwiderstandsfähige Reben) are crossbreeds of grape varieties designed to be resistant to mildew. Germany leads the way with three to four per cent of its vineyard area planted with them, but that isn’t much. According to the researchers, this is down to the market: consumers aren’t familiar with the grape names, and there are simply too many different varieties. At the same time, there’s a widespread perception that the quality is always inferior. Solutions, according to the researchers? Highlighting the environmental benefits, and getting large, established wineries to embrace PiWi’s. At present, it’s often only new, smaller producers who are using them. This is also the case in the Netherlands: winegrowers here are producing all sorts of delicious wines from Johanniter, Regent, Solaris, Souvignier Gris and Cabernet Cortis, to name but a few.
Don't want to miss a single edition? Subscribe then subscribe to WINELIFE Magazine now!
Want to stay up to date with the best articles? Follow WINELIFE magazine on Instagram, Facebook and sign up for our fortnightly newsletter.
English (UK) 
Nederlands 
Deutsch