Biovi: a research program for reducing chemical input in vine and wine

In economics, the perception of wine quality is not limited to sensorial characteristics: an indication of the region of production significantly affects the perception of quality and consumers’ WTP ([1]; [2]). However, [3] or more recently [4] show that even if a wine has an organic label, the taste of wine remains the predominant criterion in consumer preferences. The contribution of our experiment is to evaluate the impact of responsible attributes (organic label, Non Added Sulfites, HVE certification) on the appreciation of several red wines on the market. More than 280 consumers participated to the present study and they perform 25 tastings divided into 5 different sessions. 20 different red wines from Bordeaux Area are tasted.

Winemaking grapes contain a diverse array of non-volatile precursors that become noticeable only after hydrolysis reactions or molecular rearrangements, during which aroma compounds are generated and released [1]. Among these, glycosidic precursors are the most abundant and play a key role in the development of wine aroma [2].

Filtration is a critical step in ensuring the clarity and microbial stability of wine prior to bottling. However the process of filtering potentially reduces red wine quality by removing some of the macromolecules that contribute to the texture of the wine. Commercial red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon (CAS) and Shiraz (SHZ), of two vintages and two grades (premium grade wines from the older vintage: CAS13 and SHZ13; and standard grade wines from a younger vintage: CAS14 and SHZ14) were filtered through industrial-scale commercial filtration units prior to bottling. Samples were taken before and after cross-flow filtration, lenticular filters, 0.65 µm and 0.45 µm pore size nylon membrane filters. The concentration and composition of macromolecules, including tannins and polysaccharides, were measured in all samples as well as particle size distribution and wine colour.

The global consumer demand for low or non-alcoholic wine is growing steadily in recent years, driven by health concerns, religious beliefs, and personal taste preferences etc.. Consequently, the removal of alcohol from wine can significantly alter its chemical and sensory properties, including color, aroma, and taste, which make a significant challenge for consumer to accept these products. Ethanol plays a crucial role in various chemical reactions and interactions that contribute to the development of wine’s characteristics.

In this video recording of the IVES science meeting 2024, Silvia Motta (Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di Ricerca Viticoltura ed Enologia, Asti, Italy) speaks about the effect of SO2, glutathione and tannins on Cortese white wine oxidative evolution after different oxygen intakes. This presentation is based on an original article accessible for free on OENO One.