Tools for assessing vine nitrogen status; role of nitrogen uptake in the “terroir” effect

In this study we have compared the predictive ability of two phenological models: a traditional Thermal Time (TT) and a version of the more recently develop Unified Model (UM).

Dolcetto (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the traditionally cultivated varieties in Piedmont (north-east Italy). Dolcetto wines have long been associated with local consumption and they are little known internationally. In particular, the Ovada area (south-east Piedmont), even if it represents a small share of the regional PDO Dolcetto production, is one of the oldest and vocated territory, giving wine also suitable for aging. In this study, the basic composition and phenolic content of Dolcetto grapes for Ovada DOCG wines have been investigated in three different vintages (2020-2022), as well as the main aspects of the derived commercial and experimental wines (basic parameters, phenolics, volatile compounds, sensory properties).

Three locally-adapted native plants were evaluated to determine their capacity to provide insectary benefits to predatory arthropods in association with vineyards, and thereby to enhance biological control of insect pests. Native plants are preferred as supplementary flora, as they are naturally adapted to Australia’s climatic conditions.

For coopers, toasting process is considered a crucial step in barrel production during which oak wood (Q. petraea) develops several aromatic nuances released to the wine during its maturation. Toasting consists of applying different degrees of heat to a barrel for a specific period. As the temperature increases, thermal degradation of oak wood structure produces a huge range of chemical compounds. Many studies have identified the main key aroma volatile compounds (whisky-lactone, furfural, eugenol, guaiacol, vanillin). However, detailed information on how the chemical structure of oak wood degrades with increasing toasting level is still lacking.

The Ribera del Duero Designation of Origin (DO) has acquired great recognition during the last decades, being considered one of the highest quality wine producing regions in the world. This DO has grown from 6,460 ha of vineyards officially registered in 1985 to approximately 21,500 ha in 2013. The total grape production stands at around 90 million kg, with an average yield that approaches nearly 4,500 kg/ha. Most vineyards are cultivated under rainfed conditions.