Global warming: Sweden, the unexpected new paradise for European wine?
As a globetrotter of the world's vineyards, I have had the opportunity to explore many wine-growing terroirs. On the other hand, nothing had prepared me for the surprising emergence of Sweden as the new frontier of European wine. In the face of global warming, this Nordic country is positioning itself as an unexpected player in the wine world. With its shorter and cooler summers, Sweden is meeting the challenge of viticulture by relying on resilient grape varieties and innovation.
The rise of Swedish vineyards: a recent phenomenon
The history of Swedish wine is relatively young. It was only in 1999 that the European Union authorized the commercial cultivation of grapes in Sweden. Since then, the sector has experienced remarkable growth. According to the organization Svenskt Vin, the area under cultivation has doubled in the last five years, reaching 200 hectares today. Although this figure seems modest compared to the 800,000 hectares of vineyards in France, it shows a significant evolution.
The pioneers of this Nordic viticulture show a remarkable spirit of innovation. As Lena Magnergård, owner of Sweden's northernmost vineyard, points out: "There are millions of techniques, and I don't have a grandfather or grandmother to ask. We have to figure it out." This experimental approach characterises the entire Swedish wine sector.
Resistant grape varieties: the key to Nordic success
The development of viticulture in Sweden is largely based on the use of grape varieties adapted to local climatic conditions. Solaris , created in the 1960s and 1970s, is particularly prized for its resistance to diseases and its ability to withstand cold. This variety requires less time between flowering and harvest, making it ideal for the short summers of northern Europe.
Swedish winemakers, however, are not limited to Solaris. On the Bjäre Peninsula, the Thora Vingård estate also grows more traditional grape varieties such as Pinot Noir . Romain Chichery, a French oenologist associated with the estate, explains: "We didn't expect so many varieties to take off." This diversity is evidence of Sweden's unsuspected winemaking potential.
| Grape variety | Features | Adaptation to the Swedish climate |
|---|---|---|
| Solaris | Disease resistant, short cycle | Excellent |
| Pinot Noir | Ask for more heat | Surprising |
🤓 Good to know : If you like Pinot Noir, don't hesitate to read our blog article: Pinot Noir: A red grape variety with an international reputation
Challenges and opportunities for Swedish viticulture
Despite its promising potential, Swedish viticulture faces several challenges:
- Lack of historical experience
- Climatic conditions still difficult
- The need to improve the quality of wines
- Restrictions on direct selling
However, these challenges come with unique opportunities. The absence of a controlled appellation offers winemakers unprecedented creative freedom. As Romain Chichery explains: "We are free to do what we want. If I want to make a red with a little bit of residual sugar, so a slightly sweet red, I can do it."
In addition, the Swedish government is considering allowing direct sales at the property from 2025, limited to three liters per visitor. This measure could significantly boost the development of the sector by making it easier for consumers to discover local wines.
Future prospects for Swedish wine
As a passionate sommelier, I am convinced that the future of Swedish wine is bright. Climate change, although a global concern, offers new opportunities for the northern regions. Sweden, with its innovative approach and determination, could well become an important player in the European wine landscape in the coming decades.
The Swedish wine economy is still embryonic, but it is showing encouraging signs of growth. The Thora Vingård winery, for example, plans to double its production from 10,000 bottles in 2023 to 20,000 for the 2024 vintage. This increase illustrates the potential for development in the sector.
Finally, Swedish viticulture is part of a broader trend of searching for new expressions of terroir. By exploring these Nordic frontiers, Swedish winemakers are contributing to enriching the diversity of the world's wine heritage, offering wine lovers new and unique taste experiences.
