Shengeli Kikilashvili, a researcher and Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Viticulture and Winemaking of Caucasus International University, is currently on a working visit to Italy. In particular, he is working at the School of Viticulture, the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technology of the University of Salento, where he works under the supervision of Professor Laura Rustioni.
The main goal of the visit is to study the rooting of wild (Krikina) and cultivated grapevine forms, as well as the germination of grapevine seeds, master modern research methods and conduct joint scientific-research experiments, which will help explain the processes of grapevine domestication.
During his visit, Shengeli Kikilashvili actively participated in a range of activities. He presented the interim results of the joint research conducted by the Viticulture and Enology Scientific Group at Caucasus International University to his Italian colleagues. Additionally, he discussed and planned the next stages of the research, contributed to the development of a concept for a joint scientific article, helped design a new experimental framework, and learned innovative methods to advance the research.
On February 24-25, Shengeli Kikilashvili made presentations on the topics: “Viticulture in Georgia” and “Qvevri and Qveri Wine Technology” at the international seminar held at the University of Salento. In addition, during the tasting held at the seminar, Krikina (wild grape) wine produced at the Faculty of Viticulture and Winemaking of Caucasus International University was also introduced.
Researchers, doctoral students and representatives of companies from different countries participated in the seminar.
It is worth mentioning that Caucasus International University and the wine company "Shumi" are involved in the ongoing research from the Georgian side, and from the Italian side - the University of Salento and CREA (Italian Agricultural Research Center).
The visit implemented with the financial support of Vakhtang Tsivtsivadze, the Chancellor of Caucasus International University.