The French wine industry is embracing a novel approach to combat the challenges posed by climate change: vitiforestry. This innovative practice involves planting trees alongside grapevines, drawing inspiration from ancient agricultural techniques used in Italy and Greece. By integrating trees into their vineyards, French winegrowers aim to create a more resilient and sustainable system.
One of the key benefits of vitiforestry is its ability to provide shade and reduce the impact of extreme temperatures. During a 20-day heatwave in August 2025, Pierre-Jean Villa's vineyard, which incorporates a mix of apple, pear, peach, hazelnut, and quince trees, demonstrated its effectiveness. The plot withstood the heatwave better than others, resulting in a "decent" grape yield. This success story has caught the attention of winegrowers from other regions, including the southern winemaking hub of Bordeaux, who are facing the impacts of a warming climate.
The practice of vitiforestry is not limited to France; it is gaining traction in various wine-producing regions worldwide. The French Agroforestry Association estimates that two to five percent of vineyard areas are now involved in this approach, with regional authorities offering subsidies and customs authorities establishing a legal framework. However, despite the growing interest, there are challenges to overcome. Bernard Farges, president of the National Committee of Wine Joint-Professions (CNIV), notes that the expected gains from vitiforestry are long-term, and some winegrowers may have other priorities due to the sector's difficulties.
The integration of trees into vineyards offers multiple advantages. Trees limit damage from spring frosts, a common threat to winegrowers, and provide shade, which helps regulate temperature and moisture levels. This is particularly crucial as summer temperatures continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult to grow vines in full sun. Christian Dupraz, a research director at the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (Inrae), emphasizes the importance of this approach, stating that "temperatures on leaves and berries are reduced. That can save a harvest."
As the wine industry grapples with the impacts of climate change, vitiforestry presents a promising solution. By combining traditional viticulture with modern sustainable practices, French winegrowers are not only protecting their vineyards but also preserving the rich heritage of wine production. This innovative approach is a testament to the industry's adaptability and its commitment to ensuring the longevity of wine production in the face of a changing climate.
