Vineyards around the globe are facing unprecedented challenges as climate change alters grape development, harvest timing, and wine quality, according to a landmark study led by the University of British Columbia.
A comprehensive international study spearheaded by researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) reveals that climate change is significantly impacting winegrowing regions across five continents, leading to profound changes in how grapes grow, ripen, and ultimately affect the taste of wine.
The research, conducted by UBC’s Faculty of Forestry, found that average temperatures during the growing season have risen in nearly all major wine-producing regions. On average, these areas have experienced an increase equivalent to 100 additional growing degree days (GDD)—a key metric used to measure cumulative heat exposure critical to vine development and fruit ripening.
“Europe is witnessing the most dramatic changes, with some regions warming by as much as 2.5°C since 1980,” said Dr. Elizabeth Wolkovich, senior author of the study and associate professor at UBC. “This level of warming can significantly alter the timing of harvests, grape ripening, and ultimately, the flavor profile of the wine.”
Unlike previous studies that focused on single countries or grape varieties, the UBC-led research analyzed data from hundreds of winegrowing regions globally and assessed more than 500 grape varieties. The study examined not just average temperature increases, but also extreme heat events, seasonal shifts, and winter warming, providing one of the most comprehensive views to date of climate change’s influence on viticulture.
Extreme Heat Threatens Vine Health
One of the study’s most concerning findings is the growing frequency of extreme heat days—temperatures exceeding 35°C—which can cause severe stress to grapevines. According to the researchers, parts of eastern and western Europe now face up to one additional extreme heat day per growing season compared to several decades ago.
“That may seem minor, but for vineyards already near their thermal limit, even one extra day of extreme heat can be devastating,” explained Dr. Victor van der Meersch, co-author and postdoctoral researcher at UBC. “Regions such as northern Africa and western Asia are especially vulnerable to heat stress, water shortages, and wildfires, complicating traditional grape cultivation practices.”
Regional Disparities in Climate Impact
Although the study confirms a global trend of rising temperatures, it emphasizes that the impact of climate change varies significantly by region. Northern Africa and western Asia experienced notable increases in both average temperature and GDD, but with relatively fewer extreme heat days. Conversely, southern and western Europe now endure nearly five times as many extreme heat days as they did in 1980.
In addition, warmer winters and nights are shifting key grapevine growth stages, including budburst and harvest. Globally, winter temperatures have risen by approximately 1°C, with Oceania, as well as central and eastern Asia, experiencing the most substantial increases.
Adapting to a Warmer Future
The study urges winegrowers to adopt both immediate and long-term adaptation strategies. Many vineyards are already responding by experimenting with drought-resistant rootstocks, exploring new grape varieties, and adjusting their pruning and harvest schedules.
However, Dr. Wolkovich cautioned that transitioning to new grape varieties is not a simple task, especially in regions that heavily depend on a small number of well-known cultivars. “Diversifying the types of grapes grown is critical. Heat-tolerant varieties can help, but their success depends on precise timing of growth and ripening.”
Emerging technologies, including soil sensors, satellite imaging, and localized weather stations, are providing vintners with actionable data to improve irrigation, optimize harvest timing, and protect crops. Yet, experts stress that these innovations have limitations amid a rapidly warming planet.
“It’s not the end of winemaking as we know it,” said Dr. Wolkovich. “But it is a defining moment. The quality and character of future wines will depend not only on how growers adapt in the field, but on the broader global efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions.”
The study underscores the urgent need for climate resilience in viticulture and highlights the interconnectedness of agriculture, technology, and global climate policy in shaping the future of wine.
You Might Be Interested In:
