Climate change has altered the natural cycles in Coahuila’s vineyards. Previously, the grape harvest began in the first week of August; today, it begins in the last week of July, and could even start a little earlier. This is according to Salomón Abedrop, president of the Mexican Wine Council.
“This means it’s hotter, and for longer. This prolonged heat causes the plants to release their fruit earlier,” he explains.
ADAPT TO CHANGE
Faced with this new situation, producers have had to modify their processes. With the support of science, they have studied how to adapt the vine to the different regions of the state, as climate change has disrupted traditional growing seasons.
Abedrop emphasizes that efficient water use has been key. “Per hectare, 5,500 cubic meters are consumed per year,” he explains, highlighting that all Mexican vineyards operate under highly efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation. “We don’t waste water,” he affirms.
“Climate change has undoubtedly had an impact. But we must adapt. I’m not going to change the climate; I have to work with what we have,” the leader acknowledges.
Vineyards require an environment with well-defined seasons. “Where there is no winter or summer, it’s difficult to get the grapes to ripen properly. It can happen, yes, but not with the quality you’re looking for,” he warns.
With rising temperatures, previously cold areas—such as Saltillo and Arteaga—have begun to produce wine. The southeastern region of Coahuila, traditionally cool due to its altitude and mountain ranges, now reaches temperatures of up to 38 degrees Celsius in summer, making cultivation possible.
“Previously, it was unthinkable to have vineyards at 2,000 meters above sea level. Today, there are vineyards in San Juan de la Vaquería, in Bodegas del Viento, and in Los Cedros, in Arteaga. Thirty or forty years ago, this wasn’t viable because of the late frosts that hindered production cycles,” says Abedrop. “Now, even at those altitudes, it’s warm enough to produce grapes.”
THE WINE INDUSTRY IS GROWING IN COAHUILA
The impact of the climate, coupled with the growth in national wine consumption, has triggered an expansion of the industry in Coahuila. Two decades ago, the state had just three vineyards; today, there are around 40 projects. Of these, 30 already have their own winery for processing wine.
According to data from the Mexican Wine Council, annual per capita consumption in Mexico has grown significantly: from 225 milliliters per person in 2004 to 1.5 liters today.
“There is more wine, more consumers, more knowledge. And now, there are also more places where it is possible to produce grapes thanks to new climates,” Abedrop concludes.
Source: vanguardia
