The dark side of pinot noir Climate change forcing Napa vintners to make hard choices

Climate change is forcing California grape growers to shift pinot noir cultivation away from the historically favored Carneros region. A study indicates that Napa's grape-growing season has advanced by nearly a month due to rising temperatures, challenging the delicate balance of acidity and sugar in the grapes. Growers are now looking towards cooler areas such as the Petaluma Gap, which offers ideal conditions for the delicate grape. Evan Pontoriero of Fogline Vineyards highlights the reliable cooling fog that supports the long growing season required for high-quality pinot noir. Ron Runnebaum from UC Davis confirms research showing that recent vintages from the Petaluma Gap maintain high quality comparable to Carneros.

This transition reflects the broader impact of climate change on agriculture in the region, as growers experiment with different grape varieties suited to the changing climate. The shift could redefine the landscape of California's renowned wine production, particularly for pinot noir. As climate conditions continue to evolve, the future of winemaking in Napa and surrounding areas faces significant uncertainty.