OIV Defines Old Vine Age

The General Assembly of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has adopted Resolution OIV-VITI 703-2024, which defines and establishes recommendations for old vines and vineyards within the wine industry. This decision represents an official acknowledgment of international initiatives such as The Old Vine Conference, The Old Vine Project, The Old Vine Registry, and the Censimento Vecchie Vigne. The measure comes after extensive debate among experts in the OIV's Viticulture Commission and a formal consultation with member states.

The resolution specifies that an old vine is one officially documented as being at least 35 years old, regardless of other factors. For grafted plants, the connection between the rootstock and scion must remain intact for a minimum of 35 years. Additionally, an old vineyard is defined as a contiguous, legally designated plot where at least 85% of the vines meet the age criterion.

This resolution could have significant implications, particularly in Europe, where the European Commission often considers OIV recommendations when developing new regulations. According to Sarah Abbott MW, co-founder of The Old Vine Conference, this development may heavily influence future regulations and vineyard restructuring programs. Abbott emphasized the critical role played by the organization's members and supporters in achieving this milestone.

The Old Vine Conference, a nonprofit established in 2021, has been at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness of old vines and the wines produced from them. In just over three years, the organization has driven the creation of a distinct category for these wines and increased understanding of the value of historic vineyards. Its inaugural conference took place in March 2021, and it has since garnered the support of sponsors, wineries, and individual members.

In November, the group hosted the second edition of its Old Vine Wine Week and announced that the 2025 conference will be held in California. Funded by sponsors and memberships, The Old Vine Conference continues to advocate for the recognition of old vines and their wines.