Aproject to explore how global warming could affect Bordeaux grand cru classé wines in 2050 has been launched by multiple estate owner Bernard Magrez.
The Oracle 2050 study at Château La Tour Carnet in Haut-Médoc aims to ‘simulate’ some conditions producers may face when creating ‘the Bordeaux wine of tomorrow’, said Maison Bernard Magrez. It’s the latest example of research to understand how well key regions can adapt to climate change.
In an experimental vineyard that has been planted with both Bordeaux and non-Bordeaux grape varieties, La Tour Carnet will employ warming cables normally used in aeroplanes.
‘By heating the sap flow and accelerating the growth of vines, we are in effect mimicking warmer temperatures,’ said Julien Lecourt, head of research and development at Maison Bernard Magrez, owner of four grand cru classé estates, including La Tour Carnet and Château Pape Clément.
There are other factors to consider, but this study focuses on temperature as a ‘main driver’ of future conditions, Lecourt told Decanter.
It’s part of wider research based at fourth growth La Tour Carnet, which planted more than 80 grape varieties in an experimental vineyard in 2013. It subsequently
