Grape Technology vs. Climate Change: A Success Story or a Nightmare?

Abstract

Climate change impacts significantly on the biology of horticultural species, including grapevines. As shown in many studies, temperature changes influence the spread of grapevine cultivation, the timing and progression of vegetation phenophases, and the overall quality of grape production. Long-term studies on the dynamics of vegetation phenophases in relation to environmental conditions provide insights into the quantification of climate change effects. By observing changes in development and duration of key phenophases, researchers assess shifts in grapevine growth patterns and adaptability to evolving climatic conditions. While higher temperatures may initially seem beneficial, the complex interactions between climate factors cannot fail to impact grapevine health and wine quality. For example, extreme heat or changed rainfall patterns all pose challenges to grape cultivation. This Romanian vineyard-based research indicated notable increases in the average annual temperature. With some annual values of over 2.5°C beyond the multiannual average, these trends suggest a growing favorability for quality wine production in the region—but is that really so? The temperature changes recorded and their influence on grapevine phenology and wine characteristics highlight the need for ongoing research and proactive measures to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience of grape cultivation in the face of climate change.