Bordeaux on the Baltic is a catchy title and one I wish I had created. But it was coined by Liz Alderman in an article she wrote for the NY Times on November 9, 2019.

The main point is the impact of climate change on wineries and winemakers. Climatologists believe that in 30 years the wine growing map of the world could be dramatically altered. Countries in Europe, South America and North America may become too hot for grape growing while areas not traditionally known for winemaking became prominent.

Scandinavia, Norway and Denmark are examples of the countries poised for the reversal. It is forecast that in 50 years, Scandinavia’s climate will be like northern France today. As proof, there are already a

handful of wineries in Denmark, some earning awards for their efforts. Winemakers here have created white wines with crisp acidity, a factor that is diminishing in southern European countries where heat is reducing grape acidity.

Winemakers in Sicily as an example have turned to the higher slopes of Mt. Etna to grow their grapes. Zuccardi in Mendoza is another winery that has pushed their wineries higher up the mountains.

The downside to Nordic wines is that there is very little production, mostly consumed locally, and at exorbitant prices. But the winemakers are optimistic and point to the success in southern England.