Identification and biological properties of new resveratrol derivatives formed in red wine

The European wine industry is facing multiple challenges derived from climate change and the pressure of different fungal diseases that are compromising the production of traditional varieties. A sustainable alternative maybe the adoption of resistant varieties.
In this study, we have evaluated the enological potential of 9 resistant varieties (5 white and 4 red varieties) in La Rioja. Microvinifications were carried out with three biological replications. Oenological parameters were very diverse with acid content varying from 2.6 g/L to 6.6 g/L.

AIM Methyl salicylate (MeSA) has been reported as a potentially impactful compound in Verdicchio wines produced in central Italy. Lugana is another white wine produced in the north-east of Italy from a grape locally known as Trebbiano di Soave, sharing a very similar genetic background with Verdicchio. The aims of this study were evaluating MeSA occurrence in Lugana, assessing its aroma impact on white wines aroma and elucidating its biogenesis during vinification. METHODS Fifteen Lugana wines were analysed for methyl salycilate content in comparison with Verdicchio, Pinot grigio and Garganega wines. MeSA impact on white wine aroma was studied by means of triangular test, adding MeSA at different concentrations. Possible routes of MeSA formation by yeast were investigated by means of a high throughput assay in which S. cerevisiae cells were put in contact with precursor such as salicylic acid (esterification) or glycosidic extracts (glycosidase). Sub-fractions of Lugana glycosidic extracts were also obtained by HPLC fractionation, allowing further evaluation of precursors role.

Grapevine downy mildew (GDM), caused by the obligate biotroph oomycete Plasmopara viticola, is one of the most destructive diseases in viticulture.

Red wine ageing impacts its chemical and sensory characteristics such as colour, astringency and aromas evolution. Wine ageing involves many chemicals and physico-chemical reactions. Oxygen has an important role in these evolutions, especially during bottle ageing. It is known that wine composition and its antioxidant capacity are correlated to its ability to undergo with oxygen exposure [1]. A high oxygen exposure can affect wine quality by the formation of undesirable oxidative volatile compounds such as acetaldehyde [2]. Thus, ageing capacity is an important factor for wine quality and is related to extent of oxidation with ageing [3].

Late season dehydration, bunch stem necrosis, sugar accumulation disorder and sunburn are various types of berry shrivel occurring in vineyards. The incidence of these types of shrivel, and the degree to which it occur are influenced by various factors in the vineyard. These factors include the presence of pests and diseases in the vineyard, genetic traits expressed in certain cultivars, as
well as climatic and environmental factors. The occurrence of berry shrivel in the vineyard could negatively impact the quality and quantity of the fruit produced.