The Government of Aragón has launched an ambitious grant plan for the modernization of vineyards, allocating 2.7 million euros with the aim of promoting sustainability in the wine sector until 2026. This initiative is part of the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023-2027 and seeks to position Aragón as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices.
Boosting Competitiveness and Sustainability of the Wine Sector
The grants are designed to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of wine-growing operations in Aragón. They finance activities such as varietal reconversion, vineyard relocation, and improvement of management techniques. Furthermore, the plan encourages the reduction of pesticide use, providing compensation for income loss during the transition to more sustainable practices.
The plan also includes adaptation to climate change, a crucial challenge for the sector. Implementing sustainable production systems is key to ensuring the long-term viability of wine operations in Aragón.
Updates to the Grant Criteria
One of the most notable updates is the increase in eligible aid for uprooting trellised vines, which has risen from 525 to 1,561 euros. This measure clearly differentiates between uprooting trellised vines and those grown in a bush, reflecting a more precise focus on the sector’s needs.
Additionally, the order introduces an explicit reference to the fertilization plan, aligning with Royal Decree 1051/2022 on sustainable soil nutrition, thus reinforcing the commitment to responsible agricultural practices.
Priority Criteria and Execution Conditions
The call for applications allows both individual and collective requests, backed by specialized technical advice. Applications from young farmers, organic farms, integrated farms, or those under protected designations of origin are prioritized.
It is crucial that all operations are completed by May 31, 2027. Exceptionally, only annual operations will be allowed, thus ensuring efficient planning and execution of the projects.
Aragón, with over 35,000 hectares of vineyard and a production exceeding 1.1 million hectoliters annually, represents 3.8% of the national total. This sector is vital for the regional economy, especially in the province of Zaragoza, where most of the production is concentrated.
