Long term adaptation to climatic change in viticulture and enology: a research program on the French wine regions

Abstract

The paper presents the issues and the first syntheses of LACCAVE project that links INRA researchers working on the adaptation of the wine sector to climate change. The project aims to coordinate and mutually enrich the ongoing works in different disciplines by enrolling the researchers in a Foresight approach. It is based on a holistic view of the technical and value chain. It analyzes both forms of impact of climate change and the diversity of adaptation strategies. At first, we review the issues and the definition of adaptation. We then present a summary of the work done on the impacts of climate change and adaptation strategies. Adaptation combines technical innovations (varietal selection, agronomic practices, oenological processes …), with spatial strategies, institutional changes and the possibility of changing representations of wine consumers. In the last part, the LACCAVE project is presented in its general direction and according to its different Working Packages. In conclusion, implications for research are suggested, highlighting the ability to build cooperative relationships with growers and their organizations across regional clusters. This is one of the main drivers of climate change adaptation.