From genes to vineyards: system biology and new breeding technologies for water stress tolerance in grapevines

Context and purpose of the study. The vine is generally a very fertile plant when compared to other tree species.

Wine perception results from the interaction between the wine and its intrinsic and extrinsic characteristics and the experience [1], background and beliefs of the consumer [2,3]. Among all of the factors affecting wine perception, in this study we focused on culture and cognitive processes, working under the hypothesis that higher familiarity with wines would induce higher perceived quality. Furthermore, we hypothesised that culture would influence the verbalisation of wine properties associated with the different experiences of consumers from different cultures.

As the frequency and intensity of drought events increase, understanding the mechanisms of plant resilience to water deficit is crucial. To maintain an appropriate plant yield, a common practice is the application of high amounts of fertilizers with negative environmental impacts. The single and combined effect of water deficit and nutrient availability, namely nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), in Vitis Vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache was evaluated. Two-year-old grapevine plants grafted on SO4 rootstock were transferred in pots under semi-environmental conditions. During the growing season, plants were either maintained well-watered (100% ETc) or subjected to a controlled water deficit irrigation (33% ETc).

Major factors involved in wine quality and typicity are soil type, climatic conditions, plant material (rootstock and cultivar), vineyard management practices and winemaking conditions.

Aim‐ Rootstocks provide protection against soil borne pests and are a powerful tool to manipulate growth, fruit composition and wine quality attributes