Orbel

Read the audio guide

How climate change is reshaping vineyard work

Climate change is also altering the conditions for wine-growing on the Roter Hang. Higher temperatures, dry spells and earlier vine development affect vineyard work and the timing of the harvest.

The climate comparison in the recording

The audio guide compares the periods 1961–1990 and 2006–2020. It gives an increase of 1.5 degrees in average annual temperature and a fall in rainfall of around ten per cent. For individual dry years – 2015, 2018 and 2020 are mentioned – it describes rainfall reductions of 30 to 40 per cent.

The recording also reports that water reserves had not been sufficiently replenished since 2011. It mentions an increase in annual sunshine from around 1,400 to around 2,000 hours. These figures refer to the period considered in the recording, ending in 2020, rather than to a current set of measurements.

Earlier flowering, earlier harvests

Flowering around 15 June was once considered a favourable sign for a good vintage. By contrast, the recording describes vines frequently flowering in May. This earlier development continues through to harvest.

An earlier harvest can coincide with high daytime temperatures. Growers must respond to the conditions and may need to pick grapes during the cooler hours of the night. Limited water supplies are a particular challenge on steep slopes and in shallow soils.

Balancing ripeness and water

Riper grapes can develop more pronounced aromas. At the same time, heat and water shortages put vines under stress. Growers continually adapt their work to balance these opportunities and pressures. The Communion Table stop shows how closely the different stages of their work are connected.