Oenorando® From the vine to the olive tree

The vine and the olive tree

Simply out of passion or facing the observation of a climate evolution whose trend is warming, some winemakers have undertaken diversification, or sometimes even a conversion to olive growing. However, the cultivation of olive trees is not the same as that of vines. This is a major challenge because although some vineyard soils may be suitable for olive trees, their long-term profitability remains subject to the risk of water deficiency or severe frost still possible in our region. It is a challenge that a few have decided to take up, betting on a quality market, enthusiasm for short supply chains, low local competition, and the revival of a somewhat forgotten cultivation method. The association of tree and vine, agroforestry, is an ancient practice that has long shaped Mediterranean landscapes through the trilogy of olive tree, vine, and wheat and still persists in some European regions where cherry trees, peach trees, almond trees or truffle oaks are still combined with vines. The tree limits climatic extremes, improves the soil and, by bringing water up from depth to the surface, also improves these water resources. It also creates biodiversity favoring the fight against pest species by sheltering their natural enemies.