Candidacy submissions open for the 4th edition of the OIV International Ampelography Course

14 Mar 2025

The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) is pleased to announce the 4th edition of its International Ampelography Course, co-organised with two renowned scientific institutions of Germany, Hochschule Geisenheim University and Julius Kühn Institute. This course will take place in Germany from July 21 to July 25, 2025.
 

This unique OIV training program, proposed every two years, will be in 2025 held in two locations:

  • Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) – Institute for Grapevine Breeding - Geilweilerhof, Siebeldingen: July 21 - 23
  • Hochschule Geisenheim University (HGU): July 23 - 25

 

2025 special focus: Breeding of new grapevine & rootstock cultivars 

 

This year's program will explore the breeding of new grapevine and rootstock cultivars, combining both theoretical knowledge and practical fieldwork. Participants will engage in hands-on practice within local ampelographic collections and benefit from technical visits as part of the comprehensive training.
The course is structured to provide a deep dive into specific aspects of ampelography across the two locations:
•    Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) – Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof: Focus on traditional and new grapevine varieties.
•    Hochschule Geisenheim University (HGU): Emphasis on rootstocks and their role in modern viticulture.

 

What makes the OIV Ampelography Course unique?

 

The OIV International Ampelography Course stands out because it allows participants from around the world to gather and exchange on ampelography, a discipline crucial to the vine and wine sector. The training is delivered by international experts, providing a transversal and global approach to the field.

 

Moreover, the course was created by the OIV in response to the lack of specialised professionals in ampelography. As the reference organisation in the vine and wine sector, the OIV is committed to actively promoting ampelography through the training of new professionals to address the sector's evolving needs.

 

International teaching team

 

Participants will learn from a distinguished team of international experts, offering insights from across Europe:

  • Franco Röckel – Julius Kühn Institute (JKI) – Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof, Germany
  • Timo Strack – Hochschule Geisenheim University, Germany
  • Thierry Lacombe – Institut Agro Montpellier, France
  • Roberto Carraro – CREA VE, Italy
  • Gregorio Muñoz – IMIDRA, Spain
  • Jorge Cunha – INIAV, Portugal

The OIV Ampelography course will be conducted primarily in English

 

Selection process

 

Given the specialised nature of the training, participants will be selected to ensure a homogeneous group of qualified professionals who are actively involved in or will apply ampelography in their work. This selection process helps foster high-level exchanges and ensures that participants can fully benefit from the advanced training.

 

Build your international network

 

Beyond the scientific and technical training, the OIV Ampelography Course offers a unique opportunity to connect with experts from around the world, fostering an international network for future collaboration and knowledge exchange.

 

Registration information

 

Submit your candidacy to follow the training program before April 15, 2025, through the official OIV website: OIV Ampelography Course Registration.

 

Extend Your Stay: Attend the Phylloxera Conference and GIESCO 2025

 

Participants are encouraged to extend their stay in Geisenheim to attend two prestigious events held under OIV patronage:

 

These complementary events provide an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into cutting-edge viticultural research and innovations.

Don't miss this chance to advance your expertise and connect with leading professionals in ampelography and grapevine breeding!