PIWI International is an international working group to promote fungus-resistant grape varieties, founded in Switzerland in 1999 on the initiative of Pierre Basler. In June 2000, the abbreviation PIWI appeared for the first time after the designation "International Working Group for the Promotion of Fungus-Resistant Grape Varieties". After Pierre fell ill and dropped out, there were long discussions about names. Mathias Wolff then ended it and founded “PIWI-International”. In October 2004, the PIWI word and picture mark was applied for entry in the trademark register and entered in 2015.

PIWI International's goals

Our goal is scientific and practical knowledge in the field of fungus-resistant grape varieties exchange at national and international level and give suggestions.

Above all, practitioners working with these varieties should be supported and encouraged, and new ones should be gained. Among other things, periodically for this purpose Conferences or regional working groups carried out, which mainly address the winegrowing practice but also the advice and science.

The working group is a Information network for fungus-resistant grape varieties and all people involved.

In recent years, numerous fungus-resistant grape varieties have found their way into practice, some of them only on a trial basis. There is a great need on the part of winemakers to obtain comprehensive information about these grape varieties. This includes detailed descriptions of their properties, instructions for optimal winemaking, tastings, discussion of marketing questions and information for consumers.

PIWI members by country diagram 2

Distribution of PIWI members by country

Become a Member

Any person, institution or company involved in viticulture practice, research, advice and teaching can become a member of the working group. Anyone can become a sponsoring member.

If you want to become a member, use the Application for membership at PIWI International.

If you have any questions about membership or the work of our association, you can also contact us at any time regional contact person turn.

Red-bottle-Mathias_im_background