As part of the GrapeBreed4IPM project, research teams across Europe are exploring strategies to strengthen the perception and market acceptance of wines produced from fungus resistant grape varieties known as PIWI. These varieties contribute significantly to more sustainable viticulture by reducing the need for chemical plant protection products.
On 6 February 2026, a Design Thinking Workshop was held in Paris, France, bringing together experts from the wine sector, research institutions and viticulture. The workshop focused on the specific challenges and opportunities associated with the introduction and market positioning of PIWI varieties in the French wine sector.
Through collaborative group work and moderated discussions, participants analysed barriers to adoption, exchanged practical experiences and developed ideas for improving communication and market integration of PIWI wines. The Design Thinking format enabled an open exchange between stakeholders and encouraged the development of new strategic perspectives for sustainable viticulture in France.
The workshop was organised within the framework of the GrapeBreed4IPM project by the Hochschule für Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft Ludwigshafen in cooperation with French project partners.
Participants and stakeholders from across Europe are also invited to contribute to the ongoing GrapeBreed4IPM survey on the future of sustainable viticulture and the acceptance of robust grape varieties. The survey takes only a few minutes and helps to generate valuable insights for the project.
Participate in the survey https://www.soscisurvey.de/grapebreed4ipm2
