European grape growers are experiencing profound challenges due to climate change, significantly more so than winemakers from other regions. A study led by Dr. Elizabeth Wolkovich from the University of British Columbia revealed that Europe has borne the brunt of rising temperatures and increasing heat extremes, surpassing the effects felt in other parts of the world.
The research team analyzed the growth cycles of grape vines, focusing on how various climatic factors, such as temperature fluctuations and rainfall during key growth periods, impact grape production. They assessed over 500 grape varieties, considering multiple climatic measures, including lowest temperatures during dormancy and peak heat days during growing seasons.
Their findings indicate that while all global wine-producing areas are facing shifts due to climate change, Europe showcases the most pronounced changes. It has recorded a significant rise in the number of days exceeding 35°C alongside record high temperatures during the growing season. Conversely, North America has experienced smaller shifts in average temperatures.
Dr. Wolkovich expressed her surprise at the extent of the temperature increases in Europe, noting that despite having witnessed heatwaves during her visits over the years, the data on climate-related changes was even more dramatic than what she had anticipated.
This interdisciplinary study involved experts from climatology, crop modeling, and wine grape genetics from regions like France, Spain, the U.S., and Canada. They utilized extensive data, particularly from the INRAE experimental unit Domaine de Vassal, which has a long history of grape data collection.
Dr. Wolkovich concluded that the most surprising aspect of the findings was the increase of heat extremes, which has dramatically influenced grape growing, challenging the assumption that minimum temperatures would be the most affected metric.
For further details, you can explore additional articles on the impacts of climate change on wines: