Achievements

Field trial in Champagne near Vandière: Innovation against late frosts

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Marne, not far from the picturesque village of Vandière, lies one of France's most traditional wine regions, in the heart of Champagne. Here, where limestone soils and a unique microclimate have been the foundation of world-renowned sparkling wines for centuries, nature is both a partner and a challenge.

In recent years, late frosts, in particular, have become an increasing threat to grapevines. Climate change is causing increasingly early budding, a dangerous period, as cold snaps in April or May can cause significant damage to young shoots.

To counter this phenomenon, an innovative trial was launched in a vineyard near Vandière: a new system for preventing damage caused by late frost was tested for the first time under real-world conditions. Sensor-controlled heating elements and a precise combination of temperature monitoring, ignition sequence, and heating element surface distribution were used.

Local winegrowers were impressed by the simplicity and functionality of the technology: it was found that the system is not only efficient, but also energy-saving and environmentally friendly - an important criterion for sustainable viticulture in sensitive cultural landscapes like this one.

The Vandière experience is a perfect example of the symbiosis between tradition and innovation in Champagne: while the old vines are deeply rooted in the soil, the region's viticulture is looking towards the future with modern technologies.

A sign of hope that shows that even in the face of the challenges of climate change, solutions are possible – and that the pearls of Champagne will continue to flow into glasses around the world in the years to come, with the same quality as before.