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The Comité Champagne has presented its investment plans for the next ten years. According to these plans, an additional 10 million euros are to flow into research and development. Among other things, a new research, innovation and development centre is to start operations in 2025, which will enlarge the existing laboratory and the test cellar. In addition, new grape varieties, techniques for securing yields, soil care, plant protection methods and oenological strategies are to be studied and protocols established for this. In this way, the association wants to "ensure the productivity and sustainability of Champagne vineyards, develop and promote viticulture in balance with the ecosystem and produce a sufficient quantity of quality grapes", explained co-president Maxime Toubart.
The appellation has set itself the goal of becoming carbon-free by 2050. In 2003, it was the first wine-growing region in the world to carry out a carbon footprint. Since then, it says it has succeeded in recycling 90 per cent of industrial waste and all waste water and reducing its carbon footprint by 20 per cent. The aim is to reduce that by 75 per cent by 2050 and offset the rest of the emissions.
Education is also an important part of the industry plan. To this end, the Comité Champagne wants to become "the main player in Champagne training and education".
(al / source: drinksbusiness; photo: Comité Champagne)