Cabernet is the Most Popular Red Wine in the US. Can It Endure Climate Change?

Rising temperatures are threatening the future of Napa Valley’s prized cabernet sauvignon, forcing winemakers to adapt to increasingly severe heat waves. Some vineyards are experimenting with heat-tolerant grape varieties to blend with cabernet, while others are investing in cooling technologies.

The shift poses significant risks for Napa’s multibillion-dollar wine industry. U.S. regulations require wines labeled as cabernet to contain at least 75% cabernet grapes, and blends typically command lower prices in the market. Studies show the average temperature during the crucial ripening period in Napa has warmed almost 3 degrees Fahrenheit (1.7C) from 1958 to 2016. Extreme heat can damage molecules that produce a wine’s color and aroma, potentially altering the renowned flavor profile of Napa cabernets.