Mosel River in Germany prepares for climate change by sharing their soil with aromatic plants

The Mosel wine region in Germany is facing challenges such as climate change and the lack of new generations, which are impacting wine production. To address these issues, the European H2020 Diverfarming Project has been implementing the diversification of steep-slope vineyards by introducing aromatic plants like thyme and oregano. A study conducted at the Weingut Dr. Frey winery, led by Trier University, has found that after three years, this practice has not negatively affected wine production and may even improve it by reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, increasing soil fertility, and enhancing biodiversity. The research also suggests that the competition between the aromatic cover and grapevines for water and nutrients could potentially improve wine quality. These findings are seen as a way to mitigate the effects of climate change on wine production and to provide added value to the sector through landscape conservation and reduced emissions.