Predicted growth for UK wine due to climate change
A warmer climate may further boost UK wine production in the next two decades and Pinot Noir is a grape variety to watch, new ‘near-term’ modelling has found.
More parts of England and Wales are likely to become suitable for vineyards up to 2040, according to a study published in the Oeno One journal.
Excellent vintage conditions seen in 2018 could become more common in regions including East Anglia, Lincolnshire, south-central England, northeast Wales and coastal areas in southwest England and southern Wales.
With a focus on Pinot Noir, the researchers’ modelling found rising temperatures could resemble those seen in Champagne, Burgundy and Baden (Germany) over the past 20 years.
Yet UK wineries will need flexibility to adapt to new challenges, said the study, which is part of research on climate resilience in the sector.
‘We found that significant areas within England and Wales are projected to
