With this initiative, we want to preserve native grapevine varieties from the cross-border area between Spain (Castilla y León) and northern Portugal that are endangered due to the use of a few commercial varieties that monopolize production.
As we will see, their use will be key in the face of climate change. These minority varieties were in disuse because on many occasions they failed to properly complete their vegetative cycle. However, with the increase in summer temperatures (with strong and frequent heat waves) and the decrease in rainfall, it has been proven that these varieties complete their cycle with very good and balanced ripening indices.
We therefore run the risk of losing highly adapted vine varieties from which unique, high-quality wines are obtained that can contribute to the economic growth of the area. Therein lies the importance of MINORSENS, highlighting the value of these varieties so they can be appreciated by winegrowers, winemakers, and the end consumer.
