Control of plant water status and physiological responses of grapevine to water stress

Drought episodes in southern French vineyards in 2003 and 2011 underscored the critical need for effective water stress management in grape production. This review outlines how soil drying triggers stomatal closure, limits transpiration, and reduces photosynthesis, leading to decreased vegetative growth and yield. It examines the genetic diversity in drought responses between scions and rootstocks, presents new ecophysiological measurement techniques, and describes modeling approaches for ranking plant material by sensitivity to water stress. Emerging simulations now support the selection of grape varieties, rootstocks, and management strategies tailored to probable climate scenarios, while ongoing research aims to incorporate plant acclimation and multiyear drought effects.