The kick-off meeting of the LightWine research project took place on Thursday, 29 January 2026, at the facilities of Cavino Winery in Aigio. During the meeting, the project partners Cavino (Coordinator) and QLC (Scientific Lead) along with the project subcontractors, ELGO–DIMITRA and the University of West Attica, aligned on the scientific and technical objectives, finalized the collaboration framework, and laid the foundations for the detailed planning of the project’s forthcoming activities.
What is the LightWine project?
Climate change has led to increased ethanol levels in wines, affecting their aromatic profile and overall sensory balance. LightWine is a research project funded under the “Research–Create–Innovate” action, aiming to reduce ethanol content by 1–1.5% vol through natural processes and without the use of invasive technologies.
Innovative viticultural practices, the selection of indigenous yeast strains with lower ethanol production, and optimized fermentation management are combined to produce wines that are lighter and more balanced, while preserving their local character and identity.
The role of QLC
Within the LightWine project, QLC plays a central role in the design and implementation of the project’s fermentation strategies. Drawing on its long-standing experience in innovative microbial processes and applied research, QLC contributes substantially to:
the selection and cultivation of yeast strains with controlled sugar-to-ethanol conversion,
the design of fermentation experimental protocols at both pilot and industrial scale,
the transfer of knowledge from the research environment to real production conditions.
QLC’s approach focuses on developing solutions that can be realistically integrated into the operation of Greek wineries, with respect for quality, sustainability, and the economic viability of wine-producing businesses.
Expected outcomes and broader impact
The LightWine project aims to deliver:
scientifically documented fermentation protocols for lower-ethanol wines,
usable yeast strains applicable to Greek winemaking,
practical guidelines to support the adaptation of wine production to changing climatic conditions.
Beyond its immediate technical outcomes, the project contributes to the development of a more resilient and sustainable wine production model, where innovation strengthens rather than undermines tradition.
LightWine represents an important initiative for Greek winemaking. Through collaboration between industry and research institutions, and with sustainability as a guiding principle, it opens the way for wines that combine lower ethanol levels with high quality and a strong Greek identity.
With the kick-off marking the beginning of the project, QLC is committed to keeping producers and the wider wine community informed about its progress and to contributing to a more sustainable future for Greek wine production.