Proud of their wines, Europeans are also concerned about the industry’s widespread use of pesticides, while winemakers themselves will have to adapt to rising temperatures. From Bordeaux to Riesling and Champagne, EURACTIV takes a look at changing wine-making practices.
Viticulture drives pesticide consumption upwards. Wine-growing countries such as France, Spain and Italy are major consumers, mainly because the grapes need to be sprayed with plenty of pesticides.
The sector cannot operate without spraying these plant protection products and winegrowers have not changed their practices even though EU member states called for the reduction in the use of pesticides ten years ago.
But pressure from citizens is starting to shake things up. Although it remains modest in terms of sales of hectares, organic farming is progressing, as are sustainable agriculture approaches.
Practices often change during the relocation of vineyards, which is accompanied by a more global reflection on the adaptation of wines to climate change and drier climates, particularly in the Riesling and Bordeaux regions.
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Pesticide challenge leaving French viticulture with little choice
Wine is France's national pride but it represents a significant challenge for the country. Viticulture needs plenty of pesticides, mainly because of fungicides, but the sector continues to face many difficulties in changing its practices. EURACTIV France reports.
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Organic wine gradually leaving its mark in the French wine industry
While the French people are consuming less wine, they are drinking more organic wine. However, the expense of going 'bio' proves to be an important risk for winegrowers. EURACTIV France reports.
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Riesling will have a very different taste in the future
The year 2018 was an excellent vintage for German wine, despite the drought. However, with the climate getting warmer, Riesling, Germany's most famous wine, could start tasting differently. EURACTIV Germany reports.
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New generation of Champagne winegrowers pushing for ‘greener’ practices
Since the 16th century, the Gosset family has been passing on vineyards from generation to generation in the Champagne region. Today, the incoming generation is starting to implement more environmentally friendly practices. EURACTIV France reports.
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Bordeaux winegrowers want to leave chemicals behind to save the environment
Fewer chemical inputs tend to make the vine more robust and also ensure the terroir is better expressed in the wine's aroma, according to experts. France's vineyard sector is also interested in new grape varieties that are resistant to heat and disease. EURACTIV France reports.
