Global wine experts converge on Moldova for landmark congress

Moldova is set to host the 46th World Congress of Vine and Wine from June 16 to 20, marking the first time the event will take place in the country. The congress, organized by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), will bring together experts, researchers, winegrowers, oenologists, producers, and policymakers from 51 member countries and other nations involved in vine and wine research and development. The event will be held at the Palace of the Republic in Chișinău.

The main theme for this year’s congress is “Shaping the Future of Wine: Embracing Resilience, Enhancing Value, Fostering Innovation.” The scientific program will feature over 300 topics across four discussion panels. Nearly 300 abstracts have been submitted by researchers from 32 countries. The congress aims to address current challenges and future opportunities in viticulture, oenology, economics, law, safety, and health within the wine sector.

Viticulture sessions will focus on resilient practices for sustainable ecosystems. Researchers will present studies on vine adaptation to climate change, biodiversity protection, genetic selection techniques, precision viticulture, new vineyard management technologies, and the economic potential of table grapes. These presentations are expected to highlight practical solutions for maintaining vineyard productivity while protecting natural resources.

Oenology discussions will cover adaptive and innovative technologies for sustainable winemaking. Topics include yeast derivatives for fermentation optimization, partial dealcoholization methods, artificial intelligence applications in wine analysis, sulfite-free wines, alternative preservation techniques, and ways to add value to winemaking by-products. These sessions aim to showcase advancements that can help producers meet consumer demand for quality and sustainability.

Economic and legal panels will examine value creation through favorable value chains and resilient business models. Participants will discuss the impact of certification on winery performance, sustainable development strategies for Moldova’s wine sector, digital marketing innovations, global trade trends, regulatory developments for sustainable practices, tourism integration, comparative wine law, and harmonization advantages. The influence of social media on wine sales and marketing strategies for emerging markets will also be explored.

Safety and health topics will address nutrition and wellbeing related to wine consumption. International experts will present research on the health effects of moderate wine intake, development of grape-based functional foods, risk assessments of contaminants in viticultural products, consumer protection measures, transparency initiatives, and studies on physiological and social well-being.

In addition to scientific sessions scheduled for June 16-18 at the Palace of the Republic, attendees can participate in 13 technical visits to some of Moldova’s most renowned wineries. Side events and a gala dinner at Cricova Winery—famous for its underground labyrinth and extensive wine collections—are also planned. The congress will conclude with the 23rd OIV General Assembly at the same venue.

Participation packages are available online through the official congress website. Registration is open until May 31, 2025. The OIV serves as a global reference point for standards and guidance in the vine and wine sector. Its member states represent a significant share of global grape production and wine consumption. For a century, the organization has provided a platform for experts to develop consensus on key issues affecting viticulture and winemaking worldwide.

The upcoming congress in Moldova is expected to foster international collaboration and drive innovation in an industry facing rapid change due to environmental pressures and evolving consumer preferences. Organizers encourage anyone interested in the future of vine and wine to take part in this major event.