Winemaking research launched at Buskett viticulture centre

The ancient art of winemaking is making progress in a fast-paced, technological world.

Parliamentary secretary for agriculture, fisheries and animal rights Roderick Galdes this morning addressed a press conference at the Buskett Centre for Research in Viticulture and Enology, which is currently the focus of research by the University to determine its suitability for the use of alternative energy.

The Centre was inaugurated before last year's elections but was not properly equipped to begin operations until now, when the government invested in new machinery.

The centre's purposes is to conduct research on the process of winemaking in order to support and improve the viticulture industry. Research includes work on the different strains of grapes and the elements essential to grape-growing in Maltese agriculture.

Galdes also announced that the first grape pressing by the Centre was underway.

An open day at the Centre, to be held on 21 September, has been organized to allow the public a look into the process of wine-making.