Innovating in Viticulture: Trajectories of Practice Change among Wine Estates in Burgundy

In a context of climate change adaptation and agroecological transition, this article analyzes the evolution of soil organic matter management practices in Burgundy viticulture. Based on semi-structured interviews with 30 winegrowers in the region, it examines the individual, technical, economic, and social factors that influence innovation. The study highlights the decisive roles played by membership in professional networks, the career paths of winegrowers/farmers, the prestige of appellations, marketing channels, and cooperative policies. Agronomic knowledge – sometimes incomplete – also determines the capacity for innovation, as do investment capabilities and access to appropriate equipment. By cross-referencing winegrowers’/farms’ characteristics, cultivation practices, and collective dynamics, this interdisciplinary research (MOCCA project) reveals different trajectory configurations among winegrowers, depending on their level of commitment to agroecological transition. It also identifies key obstacles and enablers to lifelong learning.