Will hybrid grapes help vineyards survive climate change? Professor Karine Pedneault of the Université du Québec en Outaouais explores this question through trials that expose grapevines to drought and heat stress. Testing both vinifera and hybrid varieties, her research measured plant water flow and metabolic responses to determine resilience. While hybrids still carry a stigma around flavor, they showed promising resistance, raising the potential to reduce fungicide use by up to half and adapt more sustainably to extreme weather scenarios.

Resources:

Vineyard Team Programs:

Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship - Donate
Online Courses – DPR & CCA Hours
SIP Certified – Show your care for the people and planet
Sustainable Ag Expo – The premiere winegrowing event of the year
Vineyard Team – Become a Member

292: Testing Vinifera vs. Hybrids: Which Survives Climate Stress Better?

Sustainable Winegrowing