Epamig evaluates disease-resistant grape varieties in Minas Gerais

The Minas Gerais Agricultural Research Company (Epamig) has completed an evaluation of eight disease-resistant grape varieties for wine production in southern Minas Gerais. The project, conducted between 2021 and 2025 with funding from Fapemig, focused on PIWI cultivars—hybrids created by crossing Vitis vinifera with other species containing pathogen-resistant genes.

Researchers tested four white cultivars (Sauvignon Kretos, Sauvignon Rytos, Fleurtai, and Soreli) and four red cultivars (Merlot Kanthus, Merlot Khorus, Cabernet Eidos, and Cabernet Volos). The study, conducted in partnership with Stella Valentino winery in Andradas and the Italian nursery Vivai Cooperativi Rauscedo, aimed to identify sustainable alternatives that maintain wine quality while reducing fungicide use.

Results indicated significant potential for reducing chemical applications. During the most recent summer and winter production cycles, no fungicides were required to control downy mildew, one of the primary grapevine diseases. For powdery mildew, only three spray applications were necessary across both cycles.