Fruit set rate clonal variation explains yield differences at harvest in Malbec

High temperatures can reduce the phenolic content of grapes, especially anthocyanins and copigments involved in colour stabilisation of red wines [1]. This could make it difficult to maintain stable colour during storage [2].

During cold storage, grapes undergo changes that affect their visual, mechanical, and organoleptic properties, potentially impacting quality and negatively influencing consumer acceptance. Key parameters include uniform color, crunchiness, and flesh consistency. We evaluated the influence of two distinct packaging methods on the chromatic characteristics, hardness, and pedicel detachment resistance of fourteen new seedless white and red grape varieties during cold storage. These factors are crucial for maintaining the quality of the product and extending its shelf-life. The novel grape varieties were obtained through a breeding program at CREA-VE of Turi, Southern Italy.

Climate change strongly affects the wine-growing sector which increasingly requires in situ adaptation strategies aimed at preserving the sustainability of production. Investigating microclimate becomes crucial in comprehending environmental pressures on plants. The microclimatic investigation conducted in the Orvieto PDO (central Italy) allowed us to highlight the climatic dynamics occurring in the last 25 years and the frequency and intensity of abiotic stresses. Two management strategies for the canopy were identified: early defoliation (ELR) and foliar application of Basalt Flour ® (FB) compared to the ordinary management (C) of the company (bud selection and topping). The effects on plant vigour indices (LAI), resource allocation in terms of carbon stored in the above-ground organs of the vine, and the microclimate of the canopy and the berry were evaluated. In particular, microclimate was evaluated through a network of sensors connected wirelessly (Wireless Sensor Network), dedicated to collecting information on temperature and humidity in the canopy and clusters.

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.

Solo attraverso un adeguato intervento di estirpazione e reimpianto dei vigneti è possibile preservare, adeguare e valorizzare il patrimonio viticolo e le produzioni che da esso derivano.
Il reimpianto dei vigneti è pertanto da intendersi come una normale pratica agricola, alla pari della rimonta di stalla in campo zootecnico, ma può assumere toni problematici quando, come si verifica adesso in Toscana per una serie di circostanze legate alla profonda trasfor­mazione della viticoltura avvenuta negli ultimi 30 anni, troppi impianti giungono contem­poraneamente a fine ciclo produttivo e devono essere rinnovati.