Knowledge, awareness, and perception of terroir and wine modifications for climate change: A survey among Sommeliers in Apulia Region (Italy)

Abstract

The global wine sector is currently confronting a critical period of uncertainty regarding production consistency and quality due to the accelerating effects of climate change. To ensure long-term economic sustainability and resilience, the sector is compelled to implement rapid adaptation and mitigation actions, ranging from the adoption of innovative viticultural techniques to the necessary revision of PDO/PGI product specifications. In Southern Italy, where the intensification of extreme summer temperatures, heatwaves and prolonged drought periods is already altering the bioclimatic suitability of traditional viticultural areas. As highlighted by recent studies (Gentilesco et al., 2023), these climatic shifts are expected to drive significant modifications in vineyard structures, rural landscapes, and sensory profiles and styles of wines produced. However, technical adaptation is insufficient without market acceptance. So, as consumer preferences heavily influence market trends, an informed and aware public is essential for the acceptance of climate-driven modifications in wine and terroir. In this context, the Sommelier plays a pivotal role. Being the primary interface between production and consumption, over the last thirty years Italian Sommeliers have elevated the average level of wine knowledge in Italy using extensive training programs. According to Pierli et al. (2023), they act as key strategic players in communicating complex product information to wine lovers. Adopting a “train-the-trainer” approach, this research aims to analyse the current state of awareness among sommeliers (as high-level consumers) about climate change phenomenon. With this in mind, we developed a specific survey to assess Sommeliers’ perception of terroir modifications and their competence in distinguishing between mitigation and adaptation measures. The questionnaire is structured into three sections:

1. profiling of the participants;
2. assessment of general knowledge and opinions regarding climate change causes and impacts;
3. evaluation of the communication tools and messages required to effectively discuss these issues with clients.

Currently, the project is in the initial data collection phase within the Apulia region, with a scheduled expansion to a national level involving a broader sample of respondents. The ultimate objective is to utilize these findings to update training materials, thereby bridging knowledge gaps, refining educational curricula, and empowering Sommeliers to guide consumer choices. By effectively narrating the “new” reality of wine, Sommeliers not only can communicate the wine quality and characteristics, but can also drive demand toward sustainable products, favouring producers who are proactively engaged in environmental stewardship and climate mitigation.

References

Gentilesco, G., Coletta, A., Tarricone, L., & Alba, V. (2023) Bioclimatic Characterization Relating to Temperature and Subsequent Future Scenarios of Vine Growing across the Apulia Region in Southern Italy. Agriculture 2023, 13, 644. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13030644

Pierli, G., Musso, F., Murmura, F., & Bravi, L. (2023). Exploring Italian Wine Companies: A Study of Supply Chain Dynamics, Quality, and Promotion Strategies through Semi-Structured Interviews. Foods, 12(24), 4429. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12244429