The Future of French Wine – A Tasty Dilemma
Ah, French wine! The nectar of the gods and the reason some of us groan reeeally loud at dinner parties when we’re asked to just *try* the Merlot from the neighboring vineyard. Jean Carmet said it best: “The only weapon I tolerate is the corkscrew.” Now that’s a philosophy I can uncork! But while we raise our glasses, a storm is brewing—climate change is giving viticulture in France a field day, and let’s just say, it’s not an invitation to a good time.
The Grapes of Wrath
Picture this: in 2024, France rocked it as the leading wine producer, churning out a whopping 48 million hectoliters of wine! So many direct and indirect jobs that you might think they were serving wine at the job interview. But alas, we are seeing a downward trend in wine consumption within the land of Camembert, and it’s making the grapes a bit sour. Between the shrinking demand and climate disasters that are throwing a tantrum in our vineyards, it’s time to ponder the age-old question: “Is it really *us*, or is it *you*?”
Rethinking the Vintage
As our dear wine lovers sip their Pinot and ponder existential crises, the richly layered question of the future of viticulture arises. Should they rethink the whole kit and caboodle? It’s like asking if you should change your haircut before a big date. Should we adapt our practices and perhaps seductively relocate our vineyards to the north? The very thought of Bordeaux being grown in Normandy seems a bit like a Bordeaux trying to pull off a beret—charming yet a bit off, don’t you think?
Who’s in The Ring?
To unravel this vine-tastic mystery, Daphné Roulier, with a squad of experts, peels back the layers of the wine onion. We have:
- Alicia Dorey, the editorial manager of Le Figaro Vin—because what better way to discuss wine than with someone who knows how to write about it?
- Bernard Farges, president of the National Committee of Wine Interprofessions—a title that sounds like he’s in charge of all wine-related diplomacy. “Let’s negotiate over cheese and *wine*, shall we?”
- Hervé Gillé, a senator—because politics and wine go together like a vineyard and a sunny day.
- Christine Saurel, a biodynamic winemaker—she’s got the holistic vibes down pat!
Reports from the Grapevine
The Whole Opposite
Now, in France, a delightful paradox dances: 80% of wines are grown conventionally, yet each vineyard thinks of itself as one of kind, much like snowflakes, but with more tannins. It’s a riveting report that takes us on a tour of Pomerol and Fronsac—a slow ride on the wine train, with a pit stop at, “My grapes are better than yours!”
The World of Tomorrow
Flip through time, and you might just find that the future of wine lies in its past! Remember those ancient grape varieties? Well, reports suggest we dig through the cobwebs and bring them back into play—because nothing says “I care about the environment” like sipping on wine older than your granddad!
Yesterday Again
Want to take a wild trip into history? Dive into the archives from 1964, featuring Doctor Généty, who boldly advised even using wine during sports competitions. Grab a wine glass, and a *tennis racket*? Oh, if only they had tried this at the Olympics!
Details You Don’t Want to Miss
- Presented By: Daphné Roulier
- With the Collaboration of: Raphaël Hitier
- Year: 2024 / Duration: 52 minutes
- Produced by: LCP-National Assembly in collaboration with Nova Production
Keep Your Detour Maps Ready
Catch the show on Friday, December 6, at 9 p.m., followed by some late-night tv that’s more productive than binge-watching your favorite soap. And if you miss it, don’t fret! It’ll be available on LCP.fr and YouTube until October 24, 2026. Think of it as your very own wine library, only more mobile and less… corked.
So, friends, as we navigate the tricky waters (pun intended) of environmental transitions, let’s raise a glass, or two, to our future and the wines that could still be as splendid as a French sunset over vineyard hills!
“The only weapon I tolerate is the corkscrew,” remarked Jean Carmet, emphasizing the cultural significance of wine. Wine encapsulates not only a rich cultural heritage but also serves as a sophisticated art form and a vital industry. With an impressive production of 48 million hectoliters projected for 2024, France remains the unrivaled leader in global wine production, supporting around 600 to 700,000 jobs, both direct and indirect. However, the nation faces a troubling trend: wine consumption is on a gradual decline, further exacerbated by the looming threats of climate change in its invaluable vineyards.
As the demand for wine dwindles, alongside a series of recurring calamities, critical questions arise: Is it time to rethink our production model? Should we adapt our viticultural practices or consider relocating our wine production altogether? What strategic measures can be implemented to withstand climatic adversities while safeguarding the quality of the product and the integrity of our soils? Could we witness the migration of viticulture towards the Northern regions, and what implications does this have for the traditional wine-growing areas in the South? Lastly, what will the future of wine look like in the face of these challenges?
To address these pressing inquiries, Daphné Roulier, in collaboration with Raphaël Hitier, hosts a thought-provoking panel featuring:
- Alicia Dorey, journalist and editorial manager of Le Figaro Vin,
- Bernard Farges, president of the National Committee of Wine Interprofessions, and a dedicated winegrower from Mauriac,
- Hervé Gillé, senator from Gironde, representing the Socialist, Ecologist, and Republican group,
- Christine Saurel, biodynamic winemaker from Sarrians in the beautiful Rhône Valley.
REPORTS
THE WHOLE OPPOSITE
In France, the diversity of wines reflects the multitude of vineyards; nevertheless, a staggering 80% of these vineyards operate under conventional agricultural practices. However, in regions like Pomerol and Fronsac in Gironde, challenges from major vine diseases reveal a divergence in preferred remedies, showcasing the complexity of the wine landscape.
Report produced by Emma Guizot and Ibar Aibar.
THE WORLD OF TOMORROW
The future of wine may well lie in rediscovering the wisdom of the past, tapping into forgotten grape varieties, and reviving ancestral winemaking practices that date back over 10,000 years. This exploration presents a unique perspective on the evolution of viticulture from Porte-de-Benauge in Gironde.
Report produced by Emma Guizot and Ibar Aibar.
YESTERDAY AGAIN, A look back
A nostalgic glimpse into the INA archives from 1964 reveals Doctor Généty recommending the inclusion of wine in athletes’ diets, even during sporting events, highlighting a time when wine’s role in society was viewed through a completely different lens.
- Presented by: Daphne Roulier
- With the collaboration of: Raphaël Hitier
- Year : 2024 / Duration : 52′
- Production : LCP-National Assembly, in partnership with Nova Production
Broadcasts:
- Friday, December 6 at 9 p.m.
- Friday, December 6 at 12:30 a.m.
- Saturday, December 7 at 11:30 a.m.
- And available for replays on LCP.fr and our YouTube channel until October 24, 2026
About “Mom, I Stopped the Plane”:
Every month, Daphne Roulier dives into a current topic, fostering a dialogue with guests and addressing pressing questions about the ecological transitions we all need to undertake. What proactive measures can we adopt? How can we enhance collective efforts? What actionable solutions are at our disposal? What pitfalls should we be wary of? How can we effectively reduce our carbon footprint in this ever-changing world?
The show is enriched by on-location reports such as “The Everything Opposes” and “The World of Tomorrow”, alongside insightful interviews with policymakers and experts, all guided by Daphné Roulier. Joining her on this journey is Raphaël Hitier, a neuroscience expert and director of scientific documentaries, who provides clarity on the topics at hand with his insightful “Climatoscope“. Additionally, environmental activist Camille Etienne contributes creatively and meaningfully to the conversation.
Viewed through a different lens. This historical snippet emphasizes the cultural significance of wine, not just as a beverage but as a pivotal element in social gatherings and possibly, sports performance.
Details You Don’t Want to Miss
- Presented By: Daphné Roulier
- With the Collaboration of: Raphaël Hitier
- Year: 2024 / Duration: 52 minutes
- Produced by: LCP-National Assembly in collaboration with Nova Production
Keep Your Detour Maps Ready
Mark your calendars to catch this insightful exploration on Friday, December 6, at 9 p.m. Don’t worry if you can’t make it—this program will also be available on LCP.fr and YouTube until October 24, 2026. Think of it as a treasure trove of knowledge on the ever-evolving world of wine, accessible anytime you wish to uncork a new idea.
As we traverse the complex terrain of climate change and its effects on our cherished vineyards, let’s raise our glasses high to the resilience of our winemakers and the promise of delicious wines that may yet sip the sweet nectar of tradition and innovation, illuminating our future like the golden sunlight over a vineyard in bloom!
