In recent times, we have palpably observed the effects of climate change in our region, especially in the wine industry. One of the most notable results of this phenomenon has been the exponential decrease in rainfall over the past years. This trend has exerted significant pressure on the harvest cycle, as it used to be common for work to extend until May, whereas now it barely reaches the end of April. This change has been particularly notable in the closing of the harvest season and all that it entails.
Climate change and the future of the Bordeaux blend.
Climate change is bringing a shorter vine growing cycle to Bordeaux. The conditions may still be favourable but how to protect the Bordeaux style in the future? Growers already have viticultural and wine making tools to help, but now experimenting with the Bordeaux blend is inviting innovation.
Southern Rhone comes to South Australia: How an old bush vine Grenache inspired Yangarra Estate Vineyard
The changing climate is forcing producers to rethink the varieties that will thrive in their regions.
Veneto and Climate Changes: the Region produces the largest quantity of PIWI varieties in Italy
Viticulture exploits about 65% of all fungicides used in agriculture in EU. To reduce the use of chemicals, Veneto Region emerges as the leading grower of fungus-resistant grapevines. This strategy could be useful in safeguarding the wine industry, and human health.
Mendoza deals with climate change exploring higher altitudes
Although climate change currently affects all wine regions in the world, each of them adopts different strategies to confront it.
Some have chosen to implement new varieties that are better adapted to the new climatic conditions, while others, like Mendoza, which have a larger territorial area, are exploring new latitudes and technologies to adapt to the changes.
Viña Casas del Bosque: Globally Leading the Way in Sustainable Wine Practices
Tucked in the heart of Chile’s Casablanca’s Valparaíso Valley, Viña Casas del Bosque is a testament to sustainable winemaking excellence. Recently winning the recognition of the Great Wine Capitals Global Network (GWCGN) for Sustainable Wine Practices, a tribute to their commitment to harmonising environmental stewardship with top-tier wine production.
Adapting to change: new grape varieties transforming Porto, Douro and Vinhos Verdes
Porto, Douro and Vinhos Verdes regions are embracing innovation to ensure climate resilience and the sustainability of their wine and vineyards
Research Guidelines for the Challenge of Climate Change in Rioja
The DOCa Rioja wants to preserve typicity and character of Rioja wines in the face of climate change. Scientists research grape varieties in Rioja vineyards to determine how they would adapt to a warmer climate.
WWF Conservation Champions in Cape Town & the Cape Winelands
95% of SA’s wine growing takes place in the Cape winelands. Yet, this vast area under vine is also home to two global biodiversity hotspots – the Succulent Karoo and Cape Floral Kingdom. Both these hotspots are unique habitats found nowhere else in the world!
Resilient Viticulture in Hawkes Bay: Exploring New Grape Varieties for a Warmer World
Hawke’s Bay boasts a temperate maritime climate with distinct regional variations. Climate predictions however suggest several key changes in the coming decades due to climate change. The change in climate will necessitate the introduction of more warm-climate varieties, a venture which is already underway.
Destination Mont d’Or
Founded in 1848, the Domaine du Mont d’Or is emblematic of steep-slope winegrowing in the canton of Valais. Situated in an exceptional site of national importance, it is remarkable for its wealth of flora and fauna.
Diversity – the future of winegrowing
Rheinhessen is one of the warmest regions in Germany. Plenty of sunshine, mild winters with only light frosts and nutrient-rich soils have always provided an ideal location for winegrowing. Riesling, Dornfelder, Müller-Thurgau and Portugieser are the main grape varieties grown in the region. These classic grape varieties are dependent on constant climatic conditions in order to thrive and achieve high yields. For this reason, these very grape varieties, that Rheinhessen is well known for and appreciated worldwide, could be the losers of the climate crisis. That is because they are barely able to adapt to the changing climatic conditions and increasing extreme weather events.