Does foliar fertilization with Seaweed improve the productivity and quality of ‘Merlot’ grape must?

Wine is one of the most representative components of Mediterranean diet. Moderate wine intake together with food, has been positively correlated with reduced risk of many chronic diseases. This beneficial effect seems to be ascribed to elevated polyphenolic content of wine [1]. Traditional approaches for the identification of wine biomarkers consumption include targeted metabolomics that focuses on the quantification of well-defined metabolites, losing a valuable information about a massive number of compounds. On the other hand, untargeted metabolomics can disclose a large quantity of signals corresponding to potential biomarkers in a single analysis with high sensitivity and resolution.

Winemaking generates various types of residues (vine shoots, stalks, pomace, wine lees and filtration cakes) which can have a notable environmental and economic impact. Wine by-products are rich in bioactive compounds and therefore their valorization can be beneficial on different levels.

The use of high-power ultrasound (US) during the winemaking process has been extensively studied at laboratory scale in order to demonstrate its possible use to improve the extraction of compounds of interest. However, studies on semi-industrial and industrial scale are needed to confirm this positive effect, since the International Organization of Vine and Wine approved its industrial use in 2019 [1].

Bacillus velezensis and Trichoderma harzianum are relevant microorganisms used in viticulture as biocontrol agents against pathogens of trunk (e.g. Phaeoacremonium minimum), leaves (e.g. Plasmopara viticola) or fruit (e.g. Botrytis cinerea), or as biostimulants, improving the resilience of plants against biotic or abiotic stressors through different direct and non-direct interactions.
In this biotechnological approach, formulation plays a crucial role. Controlling water activity in the product, thus stabilising microbial viability is key to ensuring effective application. We present the benefits of the citrate ester CITROFOL® AI (triethyl citrate) as a novel bio-based carrier liquid in microbial formulations. CITROFOL® AI is safe for humans and the environment, thus offering a promising base for sustainable treatments in viticulture.

Accurate and early yield estimation in vineyards is essential for the effective management of resources and informed decision-making in viticulture.