Located within the Plant Sciences and Research Unit of the Research and Advisory Services Directorate, the Vitculture and Oenology Section at our Buskett premises leads Malta’s efforts to preserve, research, and promote the nation’s unique viticultural heritage.
Central to our mission is the conservation and propagation of Malta’s autochthonous grapevine varieties—plants that are genetically distinct and historically under-documented. While Ġellewża and Girgentina remain crucial, we are planning to revive rare varieties such as Marsusa Sewda, Beżżul Abjad, and Insolja Bajda.
A newly inaugurated interactive museum at our Buskett premises offers visitors an immersive experience, showcasing detailed information on these varieties and, in the future, enabling tastings of the unique wines they produce.
Collected from private growers and old vineyards, these vines underwent DNA testing, confirming their genetic uniqueness and isolation from other Mediterranean cultivars. Since 2021, grafted specimens have been monitored to assess:
Early trials show promising results: many native varieties exhibit strong climate tolerance and lower water requirements compared to foreign types. Rootstock trials also reveal insights into vigour, compatibility, and chlorosis resistance.
As first harvests arrive, grapes undergo laboratory testing for sugar levels, pH, and acidity. Small-batch vinification of single varietals is underway to evaluate sensory and oenological potential, guiding decisions on which varieties merit national recognition and commercial production.
We also collaborate with other entities to work on other related research. In particular at the moment research includes the use of IoT, AI and imagery for precision agriculture.