Schultz, head of the Institute of Viticulture, Grapevine Breeding and Oenology, warned guests attending a dinner last week that although cool climate regions have benefited from meteorological changes in climate so far, conditions could soon cease to be advantageous.
Professor Schultz was speaking at the third annual Riesling Fellowship, organised by Wines of Germany, last week.
The findings are part of an ongoing study, conducted by Schultz, which examines in detail the effects of altered precipitation, an increase in extreme weather conditions, greater UV radiation and carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere, and an increase in temperature, on vines, grapes and the wine itself.
"What is absolutely clear from history is that viticulture climates of tomorrow will not be like those of today. The wine industry has a tremendous adaptive capacity, but cannot continue to produce outstanding wines without agreeing that climate change is an issue and developing clear strategies in conjunction with research. Cultural practices will need to adapt and embrace greater flexibility," says a report quoting Schultz.
The three-year Riesling Fellowship is an annual event organised by Wines of Germany. is attended by key industry figures and top Riesling winemakers from Germany, France, Austria, Australia, Washington, New Zealand. Chile was invited for the first time this year. |