BigPrediData

Start: January 2023 , End: December 2026

Tech solutions to predict vineyard performance and prevent damage from disease, drought, and frost, addressing climate change impacts for sustainable viticulture.

Our work in this project

Climate research - We support sustainable viticulture through cutting-edge research that combines high-performance computing, climate science, and agriculture. By integrating climate predictions with field data in partnership with CEIGRAM-UPM, we improve the accuracy of crop yield forecasts. Our work also enables the development of precision agriculture tools that optimize water use, reduce pest risk, and support EU-aligned climate practices in the wine sector.

Climate modelling and forecasting - We evaluate the predictive skill of subseasonal (4 weeks ahead) and seasonal (6 months ahead) forecasts in the relevant regions. This process involves investigating the most suitable techniques to calibrate forecasts and statistically downscale predictions, improving their accuracy and applicability. We provide calibrated subseasonal and seasonal climate forecasts specifically tailored to viticulture. These forecasts anticipate risks driven by frosts, heatwaves, and droughts, enabling timely decision-making that enhances vineyard resilience to climate variability and change. 

Tailored climate information - Our predictive modelling capabilities deliver climate information specifically designed for the wine sector. These tailored forecasts are integrated into vineyard operations to anticipate climate-driven threats and improve crop management. Alongside stakeholders, we research the optimal methodology to provide operational forecasts of growing degree days that allows to anticipate changes in phenological phases. This ensures that decision-making is grounded in precise, localized, and actionable climate intelligence.

Stakeholder engagement - We maintain ongoing collaboration with wine sector stakeholders to co-develop climate indicators that are not only scientifically robust but also practical and usable in real-world decisions. Through regular meetings and feedback sessions, we ensure that the climate services and tools we provide are aligned with users' specific needs, timeline. This iterative process helps bridge the gap between climate science and operational use.

Why is this work relevant?

The BigPrediData project is crucial because it enhances the sustainability and resilience of viticulture in the face of climate change. By leveraging in-field observations high-performance computing, and advanced climate forecasting, it enables vineyard managers to anticipate and mitigate risks such as frosts, heatwaves, and droughts. The integration of climate predictions with field observations improves crop yield forecasts, optimizing agricultural practices while reducing costs and environmental impact. Additionally, the project strengthens Spain’s wine industry by increasing its global competitiveness and aligning with EU climate policies, while also providing a scalable model for sustainable viticulture worldwide.