Regional changes such as rising temperatures, shifts in rainfall patterns and higher impact of extreme weather events provide evidence that climate change is threatening the present and future of farming. As grapevines are cultivated under various different conditions, viticulture is highly sensitive to climate change, mainly due to the effects on crop phenology and soil water availability. The climate-related issues facing the sector vary from short-term effects (e.g. on wine quality) to long-term risks such as the viability of traditional wine areas.



To help the wine sector to cope with these problems, the project LIFE-ADVICLIM has developed local adaptation and mitigation strategies, and one of their outcomes is a manual to support winegrowers in adapting viticulture to climate change. It compiles different strategies for farmers, to adjust their production systems and properly respond to these challenges.



Concerning the short term, there are several points for action according to the project. The first concerns harvesting: to ensure the product quality, it is advisable to advance the harvest dates and keep the picked grapes as cold as possible, e.g. by harvesting during the night. Then, to adjust plant phenology to the new climate patterns, canopy management will be key. For example, it is recommended to increase view trunk height, and delay flowering by postponing spur-pruning till almost bud-break. In addition, shortly after fruit set the canopy may be reduced by removing leaves and trimming shoots.



Regarding soil, shallow tillage, cover crops (e.g. grass) or mulching will be the allies to fight drought and heat waves. These practices have several benefits, contributing to weed control or soil water reserves and reducing water stress.