Join us on Wednesday, October 13th, at 7:00 PM London Time for an engaging virtual roundtable hosted by the Porto Protocol Foundation on the theme of “Water and Wine: Regional Strategies for a Thirsty Future”. This Climate Talk will bring together Edwin Massey, General Manager of Sustainability at New Zealand Winegrowers, and João Barroso, Sustainability Coordinator of Vinhos do Alentejo, in a conversation that highlights how two wine regions facing very different climatic realities are navigating one of the most pressing challenges for viticulture: water stewardship. The session will be moderated by Jihany Brecci from STELLA PIETRO Vineyards of the Serra da Mantiqueira, Brazil.
During this discussion, the guests will examine how climate variability, drought, and water scarcity are reshaping viticulture practices and policies across the globe. They will share insights into innovative approaches to water efficiency, such as New Zealand’s Freshwater Farm Plans and catchment-scale strategies, as well as Alentejo’s Wine Sustainability Program and its ambitious targets for water reduction and reuse. The dialogue will also highlight the importance of collective action and collaboration, looking at how regional frameworks, peer-to-peer learning, and public-private partnerships can support resilience and long-term sustainability.
By contrasting Alentejo’s Mediterranean drought conditions with New Zealand’s highly variable rainfall, the conversation will underline both the differences and the opportunities for adapting and transferring solutions across regions. The speakers will also reflect on the broader significance of water management for the wine sector, exploring how storytelling, certification, and transparent reporting can engage consumers, policymakers, and communities in building trust and driving momentum for change.
This Climate Talk will not only showcase leading examples from Portugal and New Zealand but will also provide an interactive platform for participants to reflect on what a collective response to water management means in their own contexts. It will be an evening of shared knowledge, practical solutions, and inspiration for action at both the vineyard and industry levels.
