Grape variety identification and detection of terroir effects from satellite images

Satellite images are used to determine the reflectance dependency to wavelength in different grape varieties (Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay). The terroir influence is investigated through study of vineyards in France, Brazil and Chile. Statistical techniques (ANOVA, cluster and discriminant analysis) are applied. Results indicate that there are consistent spectral features, mainly in the near infrared, which can lead to variety identification. These features are affected by terroir effects, since the reflectance spectra showed similarities between regions, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon; phenological factors further contribute to variety differentiation. An additional search of terroir effects is made on some plots of Sangiovese, located in Tuscany and south Brazil; in this case, differences in spectral features are more important, suggesting that clonal differences may also play a role. It is concluded that remote sensing data are effective to terroir and grape variety studies.