On sample preparation methods for fermentative beverage VOCs profiling by GCxGC-TOFMS

Grape phenolic compounds are located in the internal layers of grape skins and seeds. They are synthesized via the phenyl-propanoid biosynthetic pathway which is modulated by both biotic and abiotic factors.

Teran is an important native variety grown in Istria known for its high level of polyphenols and intensive fruity character of wines. Teran’s yield and wine typicity have recently decreased due to climate changes (increased temperature and severe drought). Four drip irrigation treatments (25%, 50%, 75%, 100% of total evapotranspiration) and control were investigated for the influence on Teran yield and quality, where focus was given to the content and composition of main polyphenolic and volatile compounds in grapes. Irrigation positively influenced yield since the berry weight also increased with increased irrigation. This resulted in the highest yield for 100% ETc. The highest concentration of polyphenols had control, while the irrigation treatments did not differ significantly. However, there was a tendency to decrease concentration with increased irrigation probably due to the increased berry size, which led to a dilution effect. Regarding the volatile compounds, the most abundant group was alcohols, followed by acids.

“Sulphites” and mainly sulphur dioxide (SO2) is by far the most widely used additive (E-220/INS 220) in winemaking and likely the most difficult to replace. The well-known antioxidant, antioxidasic and antimicrobial properties of SO2 make this molecule a practically essential tool, not only in winemaking, but also in the production of other food products. The current trend in winemaking is the reduction of this unfriendly additive due to its negative effects on health and environmental. In particular, it could cause headaches and intolerance/allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Wine is considered one of the major contributors of exposure of SO2 in the adult population, when this beverage is included in the diet.

Nell’ambiente del Chianti Classico è stato applicato un progetto di zonazione aziendale con l’objettivo di valorizzare le produzioni dei diversi vigneti. In particolare sono stati individuati sette siti, sottoposti a studio particolareggiato per un triennio.

Understanding vineyard variability to target management strategies, apply inputs efficiently and deliver consistent grape quality to the winery is essential. However, despite inherent vineyard variability, the majority are managed as if they are uniform. VitiCanopy is a simple, grower-friendly tool for precision/digital viticulture that allows users to collect and interpret objective spatial information about vineyard performance. After four years of field and market research, an upgraded VitiCanopy has been created to achieve a more streamlined, technology-assisted vine monitoring tool that provides users with a set of superior new features, which could significantly improve the way users monitor their grapevines. These new features include:
• New user interface
• User authentication
• Batch analysis of multiple images
• Ease the learning curve through enhanced help features
• Reporting via the creation of colour maps that will allow users to assess the spatial differences in canopies within a vineyard.
Use-case examples are presented to demonstrate the quantification and mapping of vineyard variability through objective canopy measurements, ground-truthing of remotely sensed measurements, monitoring of crop conditions, implementation of disease and water management decisions as well as creating a history of each site to forecast quality. This intelligent tool allows users to manage grapevines and make informed management choices to achieve the desired production targets and remain profitable.