Convergence and divergence in chemical and sensory profiles of disease-resistant and Vitis vinifera white wines from South Tyrol: addressing strategies for market adoption

Abstract

This study investigates the chemical and sensory profiles of white wines produced from disease-resistant hybrid grape cultivars (DRHGCs) compared to traditional Vitis vinifera L. cultivars in South Tyrol, Italy. Using advanced metabolomic approaches, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and comprehensive gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC×GC-MS), alongside sensory analysis techniques (modified rate-all-that-applies, mRATA, and projective mapping), the research reveals unexpected similarities between DRHGC and V. vinifera wines. While significant differences were observed in specific sensory attributes, such as olfactory notes of ‘honey’ and ‘pineapple’, and volatile compounds like 1-hexanol and limonene, these differences were insufficient to clearly differentiate the wine types.

The findings challenge the traditional perception of DRHGC wines as fundamentally distinct from V. vinifera, suggesting that market resistance may stem more from consumer unfamiliarity than from intrinsic quality disparities. These results underscore the potential of DRHGCs as sustainable alternatives, providing high-quality wines with reduced environmental impact. Emphasizing the environmental benefits and addressing consumer perceptions could play a pivotal role in enhancing market acceptance.

References

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