Asociación de Viticultura Regenerativa

Asociación de Viticultura Regenerativa (Association of Regenerative Viticulture) is a pioneering initiative that began in November 2021 to transform vineyard management across Spain. They emphasize combating climate change through regenerative agricultural practices. The primary objectives of regenerative agriculture are:

• Sequester atmospheric carbon to mitigate climate change and global warming impacts
• Promote soil biodiversity, both on the surface and beneath it.
• Reduce or eliminate the use of synthetic chemical inputs
• Create a self-sustaining agroecosystem that mimics natural processes
• Improve the quality of the vines, grapes, and, ultimately, the wine
• Minimize soil erosion and reduce the risk of desertification
• Produce healthier, toxin-free, and nutrient-dense crops
• Ensure water security for communities by promoting water percolation and retention
• Maintain and express the unique terroir of each vineyard

Goals of the Association

This association has set clear goals to promote sustainable and regenerative practices in winemaking:

• Supporting wine production methods that protect our planet and its people
• Giving growers the tools to use regenerative practices that promote soil quality and helping buyers identify wines made this way
• Spreading the word about how regenerative vineyard practices help fight climate change
• Building a community where people can share what works in regenerative viticulture
• Offering training to teach people about regenerative vineyard management and different strategies to prevent soil degradation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For example, one of the most common strategies used to this end is to plant cover crops in the soil surface, minimizing soil disturbance.

Regenerative Viticulture Alliance (RVA) Certification

A notable accomplishment for the association is the introduction of the Regenerative Viticulture Alliance (RVA) certification, which began in April 2023. This global initiative honours growers and producers who are implementing regenerative techniques to improve the health of their vineyard soil.    

The certification procedure is outlined as follows:    

• Producers perform annual self-evaluations via a mobile application.    
• Vineyards achieve certification through assessments conducted every three years, which involve several tests using soil samples. These evaluations yield essential insights into soil structure, fertility, and moisture and aid in the development of new approaches to combat soil erosion and curb soil degradation.  
• Wines receive certification through annual inspections at the winery.  
• Vineyards must fulfill basic criteria to qualify for certification: engage in regenerative practices for at least one year, complete a training course, and undergo regular soil testing. This thorough process guarantees that certified members genuinely follow regenerative principles in their vineyards.