Researchers in Spain are looking at ancient varieties of grapes that have longer ripening periods and can withstand rising temperatures.
Wine is an important product supporting Spain’s economy and culture. It is one of the main products exported by the Spanish agrifood industry after pork, citrus fruits, and olive oil. Spain is the world’s second-largest exporter of wine in volume, with the industry valued at over 5 billion euros.
The rise in global temperatures impacts Spain’s wine industry because significant changes will affect the biological processes of grape growing. Hotter weather can curb the grape’s acidity, which will change the flavour of the wine. Moreover, increased heat and sunlight will ripen the grapes quicker and raise the sugar levels in wine grapes. This will boost the alcohol content beyond what is palatable. The erratic weather changes from drought to excessive rains are also shortening the grape growing season and causing winemakers to rush to pick their grapes. Winemakers are now looking for new grape varieties that are more resistant to climate change.
Researchers from the Institute of Grapevine and Wine Sciences, a school devoted to the scientific investigation of wine research and development, have recovered more than a dozen ancient varieties of grapes. The samples used to determine the varieties come from a nearby vineyard where cuttings of old vines up to 100 years old have been planted since the 1980s. The work they are doing is similar to the work scientists do when studying the human genome and analyzing mutations. Wine scientists seek traits or qualities that will allow certain wines to survive in a warmer climate.
The researchers have found that grapevines aged 35 years and older cope better with climate change because they are more genetically diverse. These grapes have a longer ripeness period, even in warmer conditions. Some of the varieties they uncovered are the estaladiña, a grape last seen in 1914 and cenicienta, a grape close to extinction before it was revived to make fruity reds. These varieties have not been used for winemaking for many reasons. Some were abandoned in the 19th century when European grape growers were forced to choose efficient varieties due to the phylloxera plague. Other varieties were abandoned to comply with strict labels or consumer preferences.
Additionally, scientists are looking at different planting methods. Some vineyards are planting vines in a curve instead of a straight line. This will help the plants soak up more water.
Other winemakers around the world are also looking at climate-resilient solutions that go back to ancient varieties. In Bordeaux, France, they have six new grape varieties, including castets, a disease-resistant grape that has been nearly disappearing. France’s Cognac region has close to a hundred years of experience with climate-resistant grapes.
As climate change becomes more prominent, there is an opportunity to experiment with older varieties of grapes that have the characteristics needed to withstand rising temperatures. This will help maintain Spain’s industry and keep winemakers in business for years to come.