The effects of climate change are pushing winegrowers in the Corbieres mountains in southern France to test different grape varieties that are better able to withstand extreme sunshine and drought. Their aim is to continue producing quality wine that retains its acidity and stays at a reasonable alcohol level. At Embres-et-Castelmaure, a vineyard “conservatory” has been set up and one of its plots is being used to select the best version of an ancient grape variety: Carignan. At Chateau de Ciceron in Ribaute, meanwhile, the winemaker has chosen to import grape varieties from Spain and Portugal.
