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Feb 21, 2024

Climatic Trends Impacting the Viticultural Industry: Challenges and Opportunities in the Casablanca Valley

Wine Stories
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.

The increase in temperatures is another factor that has come hand in hand with climate change, directly impacting the thermal amplitude relationship in the Casablanca Valley. This relationship, so important for the optimal development of vines, has been decreasing as temperatures rise, thus affecting the quality and profile of the grapes. Amidst these challenges, new opportunities also arise. It is estimated that the temperature change will favor the cultivation of varieties such as Syrah, Garnacha, and even Malbec in the Casablanca Valley.

These new perspectives could open new doors in the world of wine, offering a wider and more diverse variety of products. However, not all news is good. Concern persists due to the scarcity of rainfall, despite a slight increase in the last year, reaching a total of 320 millimeters. Unfortunately, this increase has not been sufficient for an effective recovery of the underground water tables, posing additional challenges in terms of water management in our vineyards. To further contextualize the climatic situation in our region, recent data from agroclima.cl reveals a thermal oscillation of 17.8 degrees Celsius in January of this year, along with a detailed record of precipitation in 2023:

  • January:  0 mm
  • February: 0 mm
  • March: 0.25 mm
  • April: 10.25 mm
  • May: 15.1mm
  • June: 44.5 mm
  • July: 48.8 mm
  • August: 55.75 mm
  • September: 25 mm
  • October: 14.8 mm
  • November: 19.95 mm
  • December: 0 mm

Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the past season was marked by 7 frost events, with a minimum temperature recorded of -1.9°C. In conclusion, climate change is transforming the viticultural landscape in the Casablanca Valley, presenting unprecedented challenges but also opportunities to innovate and adapt to an ever-changing environment. With a profound understanding of these challenges and a vision for the future, we are prepared to face the challenges and continue producing wines of exceptional quality in our valley.

 

Photo credits: © Casas del Bosque

 

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