Climate change might affect British wine

London -- A British scientist says his research suggests parts of the United Kingdom might become too hot to grow vines for making certain wines as early as 2080.

Professor Richard Selley of Imperial College London said if summer temperatures continue to rise, parts of the United Kingdom might become suitable for growing raisins, currents and sultanas -- now only cultivated in hot climates of North Africa and the Middle East.

Grapes for wines such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay might only grow in northern areas instead of the southeast, where they are currently grown.

In addition, some areas of southern Britain might be able to grow vines for wines like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, now only cultivated in warmer climates like the south of France and Chile.

"This research shows how the environment in the U.K. could be affected by climate change in a relatively short period of time," said Professor Brian Hoskins, of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change. "Increases in temperature over the course of this century could have a dramatic effect on what can be grown here, including vines."

Selley presents his research in his book entitled "The Winelands of Britain: past, present and prospective."

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.