Quenol, H.Sturman, A.Parker, AmberMorin, G.Dale, A.Trought, M.2021-06-132020-11-25https://hdl.handle.net/10182/13892This paper describes an international investigation into the climate variability within the Waipara region of Canterbury, New Zealand and its importance to viticulture. The complex terrain of the region results in intricate patterns of climate variability, which can create significant spatial variability in the optimal conditions needed for high quality wine production. Grape varieties are adapted to specific climate parameters (especially temperature), which determines the synchrony in the development of primary and secondary metabolites and hence wine quality. The viability of wine production therefore depends on ensuring that each variety is grown in the most climatically optimal locations. This research uses advanced techniques to map some key climate parameters at high spatial resolution with a combination of field measurement, remote sensing, and climate and phenological modelling techniques. This information can then be used to select optimal locations for specific grape varieties and for evaluating the future potential for grape production across the Waipara region under changing climate conditions. The new knowledge generated therefore provides the basis for rational decision-making in support of future development of viticulture in the region. The outputs also provide a framework within which to evaluate adaptation of viticulture to future climate change in other vineyard regions of New Zealand and elsewhere.enConference Contribution - unpublished