Which rootstock you choose for grafting does not affect the taste of the wine. But the rootstock provides the roots, so it must be compatible with the soil and the local climate. As part of the fight against climate change, CIVB, the Burgundy Producers’ Association, is now helping growers to choose suitable rootstocks. In the future, it will be essential to select rootstocks with good resistance to drought, says CIVB.
An advantage is also a rootstock that gives a later budding, meaning that the vine is better equipped to withstand spring frost. A three-year research project called RootBourgogne has identified ten promising rootstocks.
The average temperature in Burgundy has increased by one degree C since 1987. Winter days with freezing temperatures have decreased, and days with over 25 degrees C have increased. Winters are wetter, and summers are drier.
Read more bivb (pdf)
