Ground breaking research for English Wine – Please Help Us Find Support

I'm really enjoying being a mentor to Marianna Coppolla part of transformational Northern Triangle Mentor Network. Marianna is postdoctoral researcher at the University of Manchester, and is developing a novel vineyard test that could revolutionise how winemakers determine harvest timing. Instead of relying solely on sugar and acidity, Marianna’s tool detects biomarkers linked to aroma development and phenolic maturity—two critical yet often overlooked elements in producing premium wines.

With England’s wine industry growing rapidly, and climate conditions becoming more unpredictable, this research could offer winemakers:

✅ A more precise tool to optimise harvest decisions

✅ Protection against “cooked” or overly alcoholic flavours in warm vintages

✅ A scientific basis for better extraction choices in the cellar

✅ A potential marketing edge with wines showing an “aroma fingerprint” at harvest

We’re now looking for funding partners or sponsors to help take this from lab to vineyard. The next phase requires support to run trials over 2–3 harvest seasons with English producers.

🍇 Do you know any industry bodies, innovation funds, or producers who would be excited by this opportunity? 📩 Please get in touch or tag someone who might help us move this important research forward.

James Handford and Belinda Clarke OBE Thanks for your help so far.

Let’s support tools that help winemakers adapt, innovate, and thrive. #Viticulture #WineInnovation #EnglishWine #ResearchFunding #Biomarkers #WineScience #ReadyRipe #SustainableWine

https://www.phoenixventures.org/mentoring

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