Hyperspectral imaging and machine learning for monitoring grapevine physiology

Yeasts serve as highly versatile tools in oenology. They do more than just perform alcoholic fermentation. Nowadays, yeasts from various species, naturally present in grapes, are selected for specific non-fermentative applications. For example, the use of selected non-saccharomyces at the early stage of winemaking has become a common practice to limit the growth of unwanted microorganisms. When inactivated, yeasts can be fractionated into soluble and insoluble fractions providing a wide range of benefits related to structural components or specific metabolites.

Riesling represents the most widely cultivated grape variety in Germany and is therefore of particular economic interest. During recent years an increase in the petrol-note as well as in undesirable bitter and adstringent notes has been reported. These changes are most likely linked to increasing temperature and sunlight exposure of grapes due to climate changes.
The “petrol note” is caused by the formation of the C13-norisoprenoid 1,1,6-trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalin (TDN), which originates from acid-labile precursors formed by the carotenoid degradation in the grape.

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.

Torontel (Vitis vinífera L.) is an autochtonous Peruvian grape variety1 issuing from the crossing between Listan Prieto and Muscat of Alexandria, which were introduced to South America by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century.

Terroir encompasses many elements, including environment, grapes and human inputs that together contribute to the final wine quality of a certain wine growing area.