A Pilot Network of experimental vineyards in Valle d’Itria: An innovative participatory research infrastructure for climate monitoring and viticultural demonstration

Abstract

The viticultural landscape of Valle d’Itria (Apulia, Southern Italy), historically characterized by high-biodiversity native white varieties and dry-stone architecture, including the typical «Trulli», has suffered a drastic reduction over the last century. This decline is due to complex phytopathological problems and socio-economic pressures, such as the aging of viticulturists, small property sizes, and the loss of replanting rights. In this context, the regional project Ri.Vi.Vi (“Relaunch of viticulture in Valle d’Itria”) seeks to revitalize and reconvert local viticulture through objectives like viticultural zoning, the development of new promotion tools, and a dynamic on-field approach for adapting future viticulture to climate change. This work presents the Pilot Network of experimental vineyards, a novel research infrastructure designed as an active ecosystem for participatory innovation rather than a mere data collection tool.

The infrastructure’s core innovation is its decentralized nature, operating via a “Citizen Science” model. Unlike traditional research stations, the network consists of “twin” experimental fields hosted directly by private farms across 18 identified potential pedoclimatic subzones. This design transforms local producers from passive recipients into active partners in scientific monitoring. To ensure rigorous comparability, each plot follows a standardized planting scheme utilizing exclusively sanitary-certified clones of indigenous varieties (Verdeca, Bianco d’Alessano, Minutolo) on the same rootstock. Every site is equipped with advanced meteorological stations, creating a capillary system that correlates micro-climatic shifts with vine phenology and production quality in real-time.

Beyond its primary function of validating zoning studies and monitoring climate change impacts, the pilot network serves a crucial demonstrative and educational function. For producers, these 0.3–0.5 hectare plots act as “open-air laboratories” where the performance of virus-free plant material and innovative soil management techniques can be observed directly. Participating farms receive these certified plants free of charge, effectively lowering the barrier to adopting innovation. For the wider market and consumers, the network acts as a promotional platform, showcasing the enological potential of recovered native germplasm adapted to new climatic conditions.

Currently, the infrastructure is in the operational phase: 8 vineyards were established in 2025, with the remaining 22 scheduled for planting in 2026. By integrating rigorous scientific monitoring with direct stakeholder engagement, this infrastructure provides the strategic data necessary to redefine production territories. It stands as a pilot model for the entire Apulia region, supporting decision-making processes regarding new vocations and modifications to PDO/PGI product specifications, and ensuring that the preservation of traditional terroir evolves alongside the changing climate.