In order to investigate the photoprotective function of photorespiration in grapevine under water stress, potted grapevines (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon) were randomly divided into three uniform groups for well-watered [watered every morning to keep the relative water content (RWC) of soil over 70 %], water-stress adapted (drought-adapted at 30 % relative soil water content for 30 days), and water stress without adaptation treatment (water-stressed to 30 % relative soil water content for 3 days). Net assimilation rate (AN), stomatal conductance (gs), substomatal CO2 concentration (Ci), transpiration rate (E), actual photochemical efficiency of PSII (ΦPSII), and maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) were recorded by combining measurements of gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence. Gross photorespiration (Pr), photosynthetic electron partitioning (JC/JT), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP), and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) were also calculated. The ratio of net assimilation rate to transpiration rate (AN/E) was used as an indicator of water use efficiency (WUE). AN, apparent Pr, ΦPSII, Fv/Fm, qp, and gs decreased, NPQ increased, and gross Pr sustained at a high level under water stress. This suggests that both photorespiration and energy dissipation play important roles in protecting photosynthetic apparatus against photoinhibition. Ci in water-stressed plants without adaptation treatment increased, which indicates the leaves suffered a non-stomatal limitation, while the water-stress adaped plants only suffered a stomatal limitation indicated by low Ci. and X. Guan, S. Gu.