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Harry Armstrong

Navigating Climate Change: A Call to Action for Oregon Winemakers 🍷🍇


To:Harry's Room Newsletter

Tue 4/9/2024 9:26 AM

Last week, I shared my delightful journey through McMinnville's wine country, where each tasting room offered a unique and memorable experience. Today, I want to delve into a pressing issue that confronts our beloved Oregon wine industry: climate change.


"As winemakers, we have a brand and a reputation," remarks Brian Gruber, the esteemed winemaker and winegrower at Irvine & Roberts Vineyards in Ashland, Oregon. Gruber's words underscore the profound impact of climate change on our cherished wine culture and the imperative for proactive adaptation.


As temperatures rise, Oregon's winemakers face the daunting task of navigating shifting growing conditions in the Willamette Valley's American Viticultural Area (AVA). The escalating threat of wildfires, fueled by climate change, poses a particularly acute challenge. These fires not only ravage landscapes but also impart smoky flavors to grapes, complicating winemaking processes and compromising quality.


In response, forward-thinking researchers at Oregon State University (OSU) are exploring innovative strategies to mitigate the impact of smoke exposure. Early-season grape spraying and specialized coatings offer promising solutions, providing a protective barrier against smoke phenols that can taint wine flavors.


Meanwhile, vintners like Gruber have implemented a range of techniques—from adjusting picking times to gentler grape pressing—in their quest to preserve the integrity of Oregon's world-renowned wines. However, uncertainties persist, with some growers expressing reservations about pre-harvest grape coatings and the efficacy of smoke prevention measures.


Amidst these challenges, Oregon's wine industry stands at a crossroads of opportunity and adaptation. With global temperatures on the rise, our region may emerge as a more favorable locale for growing diverse wine grape varieties, ushering in a transformative shift in our wine culture.


Indeed, grapes are a resilient crop, capable of thriving in diverse climates. As we confront changing viticultural landscapes, embracing varietal experimentation and cultivation adjustments becomes paramount. By harnessing the inherent flexibility of grape varieties, we can chart a course towards a more sustainable and adaptable wine industry.


While some regions around the world may face diminished suitability for wine cultivation, Oregon's winemakers possess the ingenuity and determination to overcome challenges and continue producing exceptional wines. 

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