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The Spanish wine-growing region of Penedès, south of Barcelona, wants to be the first appellation to switch completely to organic cultivation. To this end, organic cultivation of the vineyards is to become mandatory for all businesses from 2025. According to the new rules of the D.O. in the future, anyone who does not work organically must renounce the protected designation of origin label. "Seven years ago, we began explaining to all winegrowers the positive effects of converting to organic farming in the future," said the president of the D.O. Penedès, Joan Huguet. He also confirmed that the D.O. Penedès would help small producers by covering part of the costs of conversion in the vineyard and cellar.
"It's very simple for us. We are a region close to the sea and therefore have few problems, and it is easy for us to work organically. We are convinced that organic is better for our landscape, healthier and more sustainable. With climate change, the transition will be easier because we have less rain, less humidity and therefore a lower risk of fungal diseases," explains Huguet.
The D.O. Penedès currently produces 18 million bottles of still wine and one million bottles of sparkling wine. To date, 60 per cent of production is certified organic. In addition to focussing on organic cultivation, the appellation also wants to focus more on the white grape variety Xarel.lo.
(ru / Drinks Business, press release)