French Vines Go Green: Trees Save Grapes

In France's northern Rhone hills, winemakers are experimenting with "vitiforestry," an ancient practice of growing vines alongside trees to protect against climate change impacts. Pierre-Jean Villa, a winegrower, has interspersed maples and fruit trees among his vines, inspired by historical methods and his son's agricultural education. This approach aims to mitigate challenges like earlier harvests, heatwaves, and extreme weather events.

This method has demonstrated resilience, particularly during the 40 degrees Celsius heatwave experienced in August 2025. Christian Dupraz, a research director, noted that "agroforestry vines coped perfectly." Trees help limit spring frost damage, provide shade, and aid in water release, making them crucial for vine survival. Dupraz highlighted that vines were originally creepers on trees and that future high-temperature summers may make full-sun cultivation impossible.

Vitiforestry is gaining traction across French wine regions like Bordeaux, Languedoc, and Champagne, with regional authorities offering subsidies. A legal framework was established in 2024, and the French Agroforestry Association estimates 2-5% of vineyards are adopting this practice. While some growers face immediate financial pressures, the long-term benefits are seen as significant for the future of winemaking in a changing climate.