Grape stems as preservative in Tempranillo wine

Given that climate change is a continuous process, it is necessary to constantly search for new strategies that help the viticulturist sector to mitigate its consequences. All adaptation strategies will have a greater or lesser effect that in turn will be marked by the times of action. As a long-term action, a genetic breeding program to obtain new varieties descendant from Monastrell has been developed in the Region of Murcia (more specifically, in the IMIDA Research Center) since 1997. In this program, new red varieties have been developed through directed crosses of the Monastrell variety with other varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Syrah.

Red wines felt as astringent and bitter generally show high content of tannins due to grape phenolic compounds’ extraction in the maceration process. Among different enological practices, mannoproteins have been shown to improve the mouthfeel of red wines (1) and the color (2,3). In this work, we evaluated the effect of mannoproteins on the mouthfeel profile of Sangiovese wines obtained by excessive tannin extraction.

In a scenario of changing climate conditions, grapevine is significantly affected at multiple levels. Advancements in phenology and berry ripening, however, are the major dynamics of the generalized increase in average temperature and evaporative demand, negatively affecting berry quality and productivity. The aim of this work was to unravel the underlying mechanisms of bunch-zone auxin application (NAA; 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid) and source-limiting canopy management approaches in delaying berry ripening. In randomized block design experiments, control vines were compared to vines treated with NAA, subjected to apical-to-bunch defoliation or antitranspirant application (n=10-to-42 plants per treatment).

Following its approval in 2013 by Agroscope, Divico became the first interspecific grape variety in Switzerland with high resistance to downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) and grey rot (Botrytis cinerea), and medium resistance to powdery mildew (Uncinula nectator). Extremely riche in color, Divico grapes showed great enological potential to different styles of wine. Quickly, many wine growers were interested in planting this promising variety. Many of its potential are to be explored in the coming years.

Context and purpose of the study. Red Blotch disease, an affliction caused by the Grapevine red blotch-associated virus (GRBaV), represents a formidable challenge for grape growers and winemakers in prominent viticultural regions around the world.