Shortlisted Nominees For The Research Award
Voting Now Open
We've received another inspiring haul of nominations for the third Old Vine Hero Awards and our judges have had the agonising task of reaching 5 shortlists from 14 countries! Below you'll find the profiles of the finalists in the RESEARCH category. Whether through studies on vine genetics, soil health, economic impact, sustainability practices, or climate adaptation, the work of those on the shortlist for the 2025 Old Vine Hero Award for Research is recognised for pushing the boundaries of knowledge and safeguarding the future of old vines.
Voting will close on Wednesday 26th March at 21.00 GMT.
To vote for your Old Vine Hero in this category:
Elsa Maris Felix Goncalves
Elsa Maria Félix Gonçalves is a distinguished researcher and professor at the Instituto Superior de Agronomia, University of Lisbon, specializing in statistics, experimental design, quantitative genetics, and plant breeding. Her work has been instrumental in preserving and understanding the genetic diversity of old grapevine varieties, particularly in Portugal. As a key member of the Portuguese Association for Grapevine Diversity (PORVID) and the methodological coordinator of the Portuguese Grapevine Selection Network, she has played a crucial role in identifying, conserving, and selecting ancient grapevine varieties from old vineyards.
Her research focuses on halting the genetic erosion of old grapevine varieties through innovative methodologies that promote biodiversity and sustainability. Since 2011, Elsa has managed an extensive database documenting over 40,000 grapevine genotypes from old vineyards, housed at PORVID’s Experimental Centre for the Conservation of Grapevine Diversity. Her work has led to the establishment of 190 field trials across Portugal, providing valuable insights into the history, adaptability, and oenological potential of ancient grape varieties.
Elsa’s contributions extend beyond academia; her methodologies have been recognized internationally by the OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) and adopted by the wine industry to enhance genetic diversity, improve grape quality, and support economic growth. Her dedication to preserving old vines ensures their legacy for future generations while offering winemakers new opportunities for innovation.
https://www.vinifera-euromaster.eu/team/elsa-felix-goncalves/
Plaimont
Plaimont, Vignerons en Gascogne et Piémont Pyrénéen, is a pioneering cooperative in Southwest France, renowned for its groundbreaking research in ampelography and grape biodiversity. Since its founding in 1979, Plaimont has united over 800 growers across 5,300 hectares, establishing itself as a leader in reviving pre-phylloxera grape varieties that offer solutions to climate change. Plaimont’s dedication to preserving and propagating forgotten local varieties—such as Tardif, Manseng Noir, Gros and Petit Manseng, Arrufiac, and Petit Courbu—has positioned it as a key player in old vine research. In 2001, it founded France’s first private grape variety conservatory, now home to 120 rare and endangered varieties. Through genetic identification programs, Plaimont has rediscovered lost flavors and reintroduced extinct varieties like Tardif, officially recognized in 2024 for AOC Saint-Mont wines.
Beyond preservation, Plaimont applies its research to practical viticulture, demonstrating how biodiversity can future-proof vineyards against environmental and market pressures. Hosting France’s first Ampelographic Conference and operating a dedicated research winery, Plaimont actively shares its findings with the global wine industry. Its work exemplifies how history, nature, and innovation can drive sustainability and economic resilience in winemaking.
@plaimont_vignerons
plaimont.com
Want to vote for the finalists for the Old Vine Hero Awards?
