Bourgogne Grapples With Fighting Frost Without Producing Emissions

Bourgogne Grapples With Fighting Frost Without Producing Emissions

A lingering veil of smoke from overnight frost prevention methods engulfs the commune of ... [+] Saint-Aubin. It was late afternoon on April's first Sunday in Bourgogne. Cold. Overcast. Fierce winds driving the chill into my bones. Braving the elements was necessary for an homage visit to sacred land—Romanée Conti climat, in the commune of Vosne-Romanée. Surprisingly, the vineyards were bustling with activity. Frost threat had dedicated workers installing a host of prevention techniques throughout the region. The following day smoke and soot filled the air from Saint-Aubin to Morey-St. Denis. Small fires dotted the landscape. Large candles on sentry duty lined vineyard rows as far as the eye could see. In an effort to avoid catastrophic losses, like in 2021, Bourgogne wineries employ a wide range of active frost prevention techniques. From torches and heated wooden cauldrons, paraffin candles, burning vine clippings, portable wind machines, and even helicopters, each of these choices produce carbon emissions. In seeking to first do no harm: Why are carbon dioxide producing active methods such widely utilized options for fighting frost in Bourgogne vineyards, and elsewhere? Paraffin candles can give off enough heat to create air movement to prevent frost pockets. Dr. Greg Jones,