Wine Growers at Africa’s Tip Adapt to Climate Change

On a South African wine estate, piles of dry, uprooted grapevines lie at the base of a barren, hilly terrain.

Vineyards are replanting to adapt to climate change, anticipating infrequent but intense rainfall in the wine region.

From Australia to California, and from France to Spain and Italy, wine producers globally are racing to adjust to the impacts of a changing climate on grape cultivation.

“I’m not one to just accept things. Let’s push back a little,” remarked Rosa Kruger, the viticultural consultant leading the adaptation efforts in the Cape Winelands area near Cape Town.

Unprepared Vineyards Face Extreme Weather Challenges Near Stellenbosch

Kruger states that, like many other wine estates near Stellenbosch, the vineyards at Reyneke estate were unprepared for extreme weather events.

“In the past, our vineyards were arranged in square blocks,” Kruger, 64, clad in boots, jeans, and a dark windbreaker, told AFP, referring to the outdated planting layout she is replacing.

To better manage heavy rainfall, the new grapevines are being planted to align with the region’s hilly topography.

The replanting occurs in stages, with older vines, notably Chenin—the iconic grape variety of France’s Loire Valley—continuing to produce while the new vines mature.

It may take up to four years for the new vines to become productive.

“We’ve structured the vineyards to fit the natural terrain,” Kruger explained.

Drains are installed between each plot to collect rainwater, leading to a reservoir that supplies water during droughts.

Enhancing Biodiversity and Soil Health Through Native Shrubs on the Estate

Native shrubs are planted throughout the estate to enhance biodiversity, attracting insects and other wildlife to improve soil health.

Pine trees, introduced by European settlers, have been removed due to their high water consumption.

The estate is enriched with natural fertilizer from the herd of cows on the property.

“We aim to create a sustainable farm that remains relevant for the next 50 or 100 years,” stated Rudiger Gretschel, 46, Reyneke’s chief winemaker and director.

The estate benefits from favorable conditions like “granite soils” and its proximity to the ocean, according to Gretschel.

However, cultivating grapes “at Africa’s tip” presents its own set of challenges.

“The climate is already unpredictable,” he noted. “We experience minimal rainfall and high temperatures.”

Conditions are predicted to deteriorate further.

UN Predicts Up to 3°C Temperature Increase by Century’s End

However, the planet is on course for a potential temperature rise of nearly 3 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, as per the United Nations.

Projections indicate that the Western Cape province, including Stellenbosch, could see a 30% reduction in annual rainfall by 2050.

While rainfall may become less frequent, it is expected to intensify, leading to increased flooding.

“If anyone doubts climate change, they should visit South Africa,” remarked Kruger, who encountered considerable skepticism when advocating for climate adaptation over a decade ago.

Just a short drive away, Cape Town is already grappling with water scarcity.

To conclude, “With fewer rains, the city residents will get priority over farmers,” Kruger explained. “That’s why self-sufficiency is essential. That’s the main goal.”

Read the original article on: Phys Org

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