Observation and modeling of climate at fine scales in wine-producing areas

The societal pressure to reduce the use of pesticides in Switzerland is steadily increasing. Viticulture is particularly in focus due to the frequent use of fungicides to combat downy and powdery mildew.

Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from recently planted vines in Santa Catarina State (Brazil), were sampled during ripening from the 2005 and 2006 vintages.

The increase in temperature caused by climate change produces an earlier budbreak date that affects the vineyard, which generates a greater risk of damage by spring frosts.

The interaction between tannins and salivary proteins is considered to be the basis of the phenomenon of wine astringency. Recently, some authors have revealed that some anthocyanins can also contribute to this mouthfeel sensation by interacting with proline rich proteins (PRPs). However, more studies are needed in order to elucidate the affinity of anthocyanins with these proteins.

Le climat a de fortes implications sur le bon fonctionnement physiologique de la vigne et a besoin d’être quantifié afin de déterminer l’aptitude des régions à la culture de la vigne. Une méthode, qui pourrait éventuellement servir à prévoir l’aptitude des régions à la culture de la vigne, est proposée.