Climate change is reshaping the wine industry, prompting innovative vine planting techniques in Greece to combat drought. In England, diverse weather patterns are allowing new vineyards to thrive, reminiscent of Champagne's past. Experts from France and Australia share strategies for adaptation and sustainability in winemaking. The discussion highlights the tension between flexible practices in Australia and stringent European regulations, while addressing the challenges of supply constraints and production impacts on quality wines.
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Quick takeaways
Climate change significantly impacts the wine industry, prompting regions like England to adapt cultivation techniques for better grape quality amidst adverse weather.
Global cooperation among wine regions is crucial for sharing innovative strategies and best practices to enhance resilience against climate change challenges.
Deep dives
Impact of Climate Change on Wine Production
Climate change poses significant challenges to the global wine industry, affecting both production and quality. Vineyards in regions such as England and Bordeaux have reported adverse weather conditions like frost, hail, and excessive rainfall, leading to diseases such as downy mildew. For instance, vineyard owners in the UK have had to adapt their cultivation techniques to manage these changes, realizing that weather variability critically influences grape quality and harvest timing. The shifting climate is also making traditional wine regions reconsider their sustainability practices, raising concerns about future production capacity.
Adapting Techniques to Survive
The wine industry is evolving its cultivation methods in response to environmental changes, with innovative practices emerging worldwide. In Australia, winemakers are cultivating newer grape varieties better suited for their warming climate, offering a unique identity to their wines while avoiding restriction by heavy regulations. Conversely, grape growers in more traditional regions, like Santorini, face significant hurdles in adapting due to strict regulations that govern their farming practices. As producers seek to build resilience, they often face the challenge of needing to be flexible while navigating existing legal constraints inherent to their regions.
Global Cooperation in Crisis Management
The wine industry's response to climate challenges underscores the importance of global cooperation among wine regions. Networks like Great Wine Capitals enable regions to share best practices and strategies to combat the effects of climate change, from immediate crisis management to long-term planning for resilience. This collaboration has been vital during emergencies, such as the Australian bushfires, where insights were shared with affected producers in Napa Valley. By pooling knowledge and resources, the industry can better prepare for climate-induced disruptions and ensure the sustainability of wine production worldwide.
Climate change is changing the way winemakers plan, harvest and make their product.
On the Greek island of Santorini we find out how new techniques of vine planting are helping to preserve water amid more frequent drought conditions.
Investors in England have realised areas in the south of country have similar weather conditions to Champagne in France, 30 years ago.
Plus we hear from experts in France and Australia to discover different methods the industry is using, and find out how new businesses are advising the global wine industry to ensure its survival in a changing world.
Produced and presented by Daniel Rosney
(Image: A picker throws the collected grapes from the vine in a tank at the Gusbourne Estate, Appledore near Ashford, England on October 28, 2022. Credit: Getty Images)
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