Wine Review No. 177s

Is viticulture compatible with agroecology? A challenge, to adapt and reinvent. This special feature reminds us how the spirit of the vine is at the heart of agroecology. "The vine is the obvious embodiment of a change in interaction with the microbial and plant world around it: it invites us to rediscover the sense of interdependence," emphasizes Marc-André Selosse, Professor at the National Museum of Natural History in his editorial. According to Cécile Claveirole, member of the CESE and National Secretary of FNE, agroecology in viticulture is "today's challenge: the essential adaptation and reinvention of viticulture to restore biological cycles and ensure the resilience and productivity of the vineyard." Alexander Wezel, from ISARA, advocates for defining agroecological viticultural territories, stating that "applying the principles of agroecology to viticulture means promoting its repositioning within territories and food systems." Faced with soil depletion, agroecology, according to Claude and Lydia Bourguignon, involves "first defining the rules for soil restoration, and then applying traditional agricultural methods that have proven their sustainability by adapting them to current knowledge in soil science, soil biology, plant physiology, and ecology." This feature presents numerous action initiatives in place and also avenues for producing new knowledge and acting in situations of uncertainty. Enjoy reading. Henri Laurent ARNOULD, Director of Publication, Corinne BOULBÈS, Co-editor of the Special Feature.