09 September 2025 How will climate change shape the future of wine?

Join us for the next event in Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University’s Excellence Series—an ongoing celebration of academic leadership and applied research that contributes to a thriving, sustainable Aotearoa New Zealand. These events highlight the work of leading scholars whose research is shaping both national and global conversations.

Grapes are ripening earlier. Berry composition is changing. And the wine industry is already feeling the heat — literally. So what does climate change mean for grape production, in New Zealand and around the world?

In this talk, Assoc. Prof. Amber Parker shares her research into how climate change is transforming grape production and what that might mean for some of our most iconic varieties — Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. (No tasting, sorry — this is a metaphorical journey!)

From shifting phenology to changing berry chemistry, she will explore the science behind current trends and future projections. While wine focussed, the talk highlights the value of phenology research to understand climate change impacts.

Join us for this interesting event as we hear about how wine producers may adapt and how understanding both impacts and adaptations can help pave a path forward in a warming world.

Tuesday 9 September

4.00pm-5.30pm

Pātiki, Waimarie Building, Lincoln University

4.00 pm - Networking

4.15 pm  - Welcome & introduction from LU Vice-Chancellor

4.20 pm - Presentation from Speaker

4.50 pm - Summary

5.00 pm - Networking and questions over drinks and nibbles

5.30pm - Event Ends

Associate Professor Amber Parker

My research focuses on understanding environmental drivers of phenology, investigating the impacts of effects of source-sink modifications of the grapevine on phenology and asynchrony of fruit composition, and understanding impacts and adaptations for viticulture in the context of climate change.

I view the grapevine as a model system that can used to be understand plant physiological mechanisms in response to temperature and water stress and the impacts that this may have in terms of growth and production, and fruit quality. From this understanding, models of plant responses can be developed. My research on phenology and physiological responses to temperature and water availability also concentrates on understanding how cultivar and rootstock diversity play a role in these responses, and what this genetic diversity may offer in terms of adapting to climate change.

I also have a keen interest in implementing precision agriculture techniques, particularly in viticulture research. I enjoy working with the wine industry on research projects to help solve key issues and to develop new ideas and solutions for future sustainable grape and wine production, particularly in the context of global climate change.