Effects of different irrigation strategies on berry and wine composition on Cabernet-Sauvignon grapevines grown in Madrid (Spain)

Abstract

Winegrowing in warm, dry areas usually compromises berry growth and must composition, and therefore the composition of the resulting wines. Phenol metabolism and aroma profile are particularly affected. As a consequence of global warming, berry ripening processes are often delayed, reducing the likelihood of obtaining berries with the adequate composition, taste and aroma necessary in the making top quality wines. The purpose of this trial was to study different viticulture practices in order to use them in mitigating said negative effects; by stimulating vine metabolism and development through the use of different irrigation strategies. To this end, a study on water availability along the different phenological stages was carried out in order to understand its influence on must and wine composition. During the 2010 and 2011 growing periods, four irrigation strategies were established: i) irrigation from flowering to harvest ii) regulated deficit irrigation throughout the whole season iii) irrigation from flowering to veraison iv) irrigation from veraison to harvest. All irrigation treatments were microvinificated and basic and phenol analyses of must and were carried out.  Panel-tasting results have also provided in this study. The results show that the basic components of must and wine, as well as phenol concentration, remained constant in spite of the increase in berry weight. These aspects are reflected in the wine’s sensory characteristics.