TASTING CLIMATE CHANGE 2026
REWATCH THE CONFERENCES
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Wine production in a constant changing world
OPENING CONFERENCE | MONDAY 9:00-9:45 AM
Jean Lemire, Government of Québec
Jerôme Dupras PhD, Habitat Nature
Climate change is profoundly transforming ecosystems and agricultural practices. Plastic pollution is also affecting marine and terrestrial habitats and poses a threat to public health. In this conference, climate change envoy Jean Lemire and researcher Jérôme Dupras will present a global overview of the current state of science on upcoming environmental and climate impacts. They will also highlight the essential role of biodiversity as a lever for resilience and adaptation for the future of our terroirs.
Vines and grape variety: a perpetual evolution, from yesterday to tomorrow
CONFERENCE | MONDAY 10:00-11:00 AM
Marc-André Selosse PhD, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle de Paris
The history of the vine has recently become clearer: it originated in the Middle East 11,500 years ago, and the domesticated grapes were propagated towards the West. On the way, they evolved genetically, establishing the current grape varieties. From Europe, they spread throughout the world... while they became less diverse, particularly after phylloxera. Today, faced with diseases (especially fungi) and climate change, our grape varieties must evolve and adapt. Solutions already exist: come and discuss these adaptations, keeping in mind that domesticated vines and viticulture must reconnect with the capacity to evolve that built their history and their successes.
Building Resilience
CONFERENCE | MONDAY 11:00-12:00 AM
Rosa Kruger, Old Vine Project & Decanter Hall of Fame 2022
Climate change is a harsh new reality in many countries. Heatwaves, less rain, floods and fires is asking of us to look at farming and viticulture differently. New ways to design vineyards that flow with the natural landscape, that capture and store rainwater effectively and improve soil health might help farmers to become more climate resilient. Migrant or seasonal labour is used in many countries to work the vines. Vine schools for vineyard workers can provide a deeper, shared understanding of viticultural techniques necessary for survival in future.
Regenerative viticulture – Building a sustainable future
PANEL | MONDAY 1:30-2:30 PM
Isabel Gassier, Famille Gassier
Fanny Courtial, Château de l'Eclair
Becky Sykes, Regenerative Viticulture Foundation
Moderated by Michelle Bouffard
Regenerative viticulture is seen as the new gold standard in sustainability. The Rodale Institute estimates that if all agriculture adopted regenerative practices, we could sequester 100% of current CO₂ emissions. Our panelists will explore why regenerative viticulture matters, how it strengthens soil health and biodiversity, and what it means for the future of wine.
Water Management – Every Drop Counts
PANEL | MONDAY 2:30-3:30 PM
Kosta Bakasietas, Agronomist nurseryman
Edouard Guérin, L’Oratoire des Papes
Will Drayton, Treasury Wine Estates
Moderated by Marta Mendonça
Water is one of the most precious resources in wine production, yet also one of the most threatened by climate change. This panel will bring together experts and producers to discuss innovative strategies for water management — from irrigation practices to soil health and regenerative solutions — and explore how the wine industry can adapt to increasing water scarcity.
North American Frontiers – Emerging Wine Regions
PANEL | MONDAY 3:30-4:30 PM
Gabriel Demarco, Cave Spring Vineyard
Vincent Laniel, domaine Très-Précieux-Sang
Ria D'Aversa, Ria’s Wines
Mathieu Lapierre, Domaine M. & C. Lapierre
Moderated by Michelle Bouffard
Québec, Ontario, and New York are often seen as regions poised to benefit from climate change, with longer growing seasons and new grape varieties becoming viable. But is that truly the case? Alongside these opportunities come significant challenges — from frost and humidity to shifting consumer perceptions. This panel will bring together producers to explore both sides of the story: the promise, the risks, and what the future may hold for these emerging cool-climate regions.
Understanding Consumer Perceptions of Climate Change
CONFERENCE | TUESDAY 8:00-9:00 AM
Nathalie Spielman phD, NEOMA Business School
How can we get consumers to positively react to climate change? By first understanding what drives their (lack of) behaviour. This conference focuses on key psychological drivers that consumers rely on as well as market forces that may help but sometimes hinder climate change acceptance by consumers.
Buying Power – The Role of Wine Buyers in a Changing Climate
PANEL | TUESDAY 9:00-10:00 AM
Ines Castillo, SAQ
Dr. Laura Catena, Catena Zapata & Luca Wines
Michele Manelli, Equalitas
Marcus Ihre, Systembolaget
Moderated by Michelle Bouffard
Wine buyers hold significant influence in shaping a more sustainable industry. This panel will explore how purchasing decisions, certification standards, and market expectations intersect to drive climate action in wine. Panelists will also share the challenges and opportunities they face when balancing sustainability with consumer demand.
No to Greenwashing – Building Real Sustainability in Wine
PANEL | TUESDAY 10:15-11:15 AM
Alessio Planeta, Planeta
Felicity Carter, Drinks Insider & Areni Global
Sandro Bottega, Bottega
Alejandra Galván, CedarCreek Estate Winery
Moderated by Felicity Carter
As sustainability gains momentum in the wine industry, the risk of greenwashing grows. This panel will explore how producers, buyers, and certification bodies can ensure that claims are credible and transparent. Panelists will discuss strategies to communicate real progress, avoid misleading messaging, and build consumer trust.
Shaping the Narrative – The Role of Communicators in Sustainable Wine
PANEL | TUESDAY 11:15-12:15 AM
Felicity Carter, Drinks Insider & Areni Global
Véronique Rivest, Sommelier & Soif Bar à vin
Tara Q. Thomas, JancisRobinson.com
Moderated by Michelle Bouffard
Educators, journalists, and influencers play a vital role in how sustainability in wine is understood and embraced. This panel will explore how effective communication can inspire change, counter misinformation, and connect consumers with authentic stories. Panelists will share how their work helps bridge the gap between producers and the public to build a more sustainable wine culture.
The Hidden Side of Wine – Making the Supply Chain Sustainable
PANEL | TUESDAY 1:45-2:45 PM
Christian Marier-Pilon, SAQ
Anna Brittain, Regeneration & Resilience Consultant
Antoine El Naccour, Verallia
Marc Picόn Malivern, Sumarroca
Moderated by Michelle Bouffard
Every step of the supply chain has an impact on the wine industry’s sustainability, from packaging and transport to distribution and retail. This panel will examine how supply chain decisions influence carbon footprints and resource use. Panelists will discuss innovative practices, challenges, and collaborations that can make the journey from vineyard to consumer more sustainable.
Financial Sustainability – Securing the Future of Wine
PANEL | TUESDAY 2:45-3:45 PM
Etienne Neethling PhD, Ecole supérieure d'Agriculture d'Angers
Anne Bousquet, Domaine Bousquet & Origins Organic Imports
Séverine Pinte, Le Vieux Pin & LaStella
Moderated by Etienne Neethling
Environmental efforts alone are not enough — wineries must also be financially sustainable to thrive. This panel will explore the economic realities of running a wine business in a changing climate. Panelists will discuss strategies to remain profitable while investing in sustainable practices, from managing rising costs to building long-term resilience.