National Drink Wine Day: Climate Change Putting the Squeeze on Grapes

Valentine’s Day may have passed, but wine lovers have another reason to celebrate. Just in time for the weekend, Friday February 18 is National Drink Wine Day. But, if you’re a fan of a certain vintage, climate change may bring a different flavor and variety to your palate.

France’s Bordeaux region is famous for its Cabernet and Merlot wines. However, French winemakers worry higher temperatures are putting the squeeze on their grapes by changing the flavor and alcohol content of the fruit. Warmer, drier weather could also make the grapes mature faster, receive less water and become more vulnerable to parasites.

Higher temperatures are also having an impact on the color and taste of wines throughout the world. Some winemakers, however, expect a boost from warming temperatures. If warming continues, vineyards historically located in southern regions may shift farther north. Interestingly, Germany’s northern Mosel wine region expects warmer weather to increase the quantity and quality of its wines.

Click here to find out to pick a nice organic wine to celebrate National Drink Wine Day, and click here to find out more about how climate change affects agriculture.