Italy tests first gene-edited vines for winemaking

Abstract

Europe’s first field trial of gene-edited vines began in northern Italy on 30 September 2024. Developed by EdiVite, a spinoff from the University of Verona, these Chardonnay vines have undergone gene inactivation to enable them to better defend themselves against downy mildew, a major fungal disease. The trial is being conducted on university land, with plans to expand to another site in the Veneto region. Researchers aim to gather initial data by 2025, with the potential for experimental winemaking in 2026.