A current research in collaboration with the University Of Malta will be investigating the use of alternative energy to generate the required temperature for winemaking. Parliamentary Secretary Roderick Galdes, said that such research will ensure that the viticulture industry in Malta will continue in the right direction, adding that grape pressing as part of the research will take place at the Buskett winemaking Centre.

Mr Galdes said that although the centre in Buskett was launched prior to last year’s election, it lacked the adequate mechanism to function properly. The government has invested in new machinery allowing the centre to operate professionally. The first local research within the industry dates back to 1947, before local wine started being produced. The research centre is now being headed by a committee appointed by the Ministry for Agriculture. Several research studies are planned to be carried out in the upcoming years.

On the 21st of September, an open day at the centre will give the opportunity to the public to witness the winemaking process.