The Impact of Climate on Wine Production: A Deep Dive into Nature's Influence

Photo Credit: Food & Wine

Wine production is a delicate art shaped by countless factors, with climate playing a pivotal role in determining the quality and characteristics of the final product. From temperature extremes to rainfall patterns, each element of climate affects grapevines in unique ways.

At Straits Wine, we represent more than 100 wineries across the world, advocating for artisanal producers and family-owned wineries who are pursuing innovative ways to preserve beloved grape varieties and their unique qualities under the shifting and capricious conditions of today’s warming world. Here’s an in-depth look at how various climatic factors influence wine production and how winemakers have adapted to the new normal. 

1. Temperature and Sunlight

Temperature is crucial in viticulture as it directly influences grape development and wine flavour. Grapevines generally thrive in moderate climates with defined seasons, with ideal daytime temperatures between 18-22°C (65-72°F). Varieties like Pinot Noir, for instance, benefit from cooler climates that promote slower ripening and complex flavours. Excessive heat can speed up ripening, leading to high alcohol content and loss of acidity, which may result in overly fruity, unbalanced wines, and can even cause sunburn or premature shrivelling of grapes. On the other hand, cold temperatures can halt grape development, cause frost damage, and affect vine survival and maturation, especially in regions with extreme cold. 

When it comes to Burgundy wines, Wine Enthusiast shared that climate change has introduced a pattern of extraordinarily dry, sunny vintages that have been commercial blockbusters. Contemporary harvest dates are two weeks earlier than in the previous six centuries and contemporary Burgundy wines, both red and white, are riper and richer than ever before. They are bolder in fruit concentration and higher in alcohol but also softer in acidity and tannins. Many of these changes have been embraced by winegrowers and we revel in the brilliant Burgundy wines produced in this period, such as the Clos Du Moulin Aux Moines Beaune 1er Cru Les Cent Vignes 2018, with its fragrant notes of red berries and herbs, floral hints and silky texture. 

At Alois Lageder, they experimented with the grape varieties they were planting, opting for those that are accustomed to heat such as Viognier, Tannat and Petit Manseng, hoping that they would maintain a robust acid structure even at high temperatures. To further mitigate the effects of climate change, they’re also exploring higher-altitude vineyards, where cooler conditions prevail. Additionally, when planting new vines, they like to use the traditional pergola training system, which provides increased shade for both the grapes and the soil.

2. Rainfall

Rainfall is another crucial factor influencing vine health and grape quality. Both the amount and timing of rainfall can have significant implications for wine production. When there’s a lack of rain, grapevines may produce fewer grapes but with more concentrated flavours due to the reduced dilution of sugars and acids. However, excessive drought can stress the vines, leading to imbalanced grapes with high sugar levels and low acidity, potentially resulting in overly sweet, low-acid wines. 

3. Soil Moisture

With unpredictable climate changes, soil moisture levels have been greatly affected by the uncertain rain levels and temperatures, in turn impacting vine health and grape flavour concentration. Consistent soil moisture is vital for preventing vine stress and ensuring even grape ripening. In dry conditions, vines may produce lower yields but more concentrated flavours due to the stress they endure. Conversely, excessive moisture can lead to overly vigorous vine growth and diluted grape flavours. 
 

At Kaesler Wines in Australia, their tertiary educated vineyard managers take the modern approach to sustainable farming, in that soil health is paramount; they regularly monitor soil health and pursue natural means of soil care and protection. Estate-produced and local compost is used in their vineyards in combination with natural enhancers and mulch. Their partnership with ‘Trees for Life’ saw up to four hectares of saline land revegetated with native plants in an aim to reduce further degradation to the soil, promoting beneficial organisms and increasing wildlife activities. 

Climate change is revolutionising winemaking, bringing both hurdles and opportunities. By mastering the impacts of temperature, sunlight, rainfall, soil moisture, and wind, winemakers are crafting exceptional wines despite the challenges. We’re proud of our wineries for their groundbreaking approaches in adapting to climate change, and we hope you savour your glass of wine with a new appreciation.

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