Intra-block spatial and temporal variability of plant water status and its effect on grape and wine parameters.

Abstract

[EN] Improving wine composition is a critical factor for the wine industry. Phenolic compounds play an important role in wine composition contributing to its organoleptic characteristics. Although several factors can influence the phenolic concentration, plant water status in particular has shown to have a direct impact on the phenolic compounds. It is however complex to quantitate water deficit by plant water status measurements as they depend on the specific site (topography, viticultural management practices and soil characteristics) creating variable values within the vineyard block. This study focused on analysing the effect of natural spatial and temporal variability of plant water status on grape and wine parameters. A field experiment was done in a commercial Cabernet Sauvignon block to monitor the temporal and spatial intra-block variability of plant water status using a grid sample method. Soil analysis and topography were included in the evaluation. Each target vine was assessed for yield, ripeness as well as standard juice parameters. Micro-vinification was done for each target vine and the concentration of anthocyanins and tannins analysed. The results showed that the spatial and temporal variability was evident along the season. Plant water status influenced changes in the concentration of phenolic compounds and grape parameters. The vines in the stressed class were associated with changes in soil texture and topography. These plants presented a moderate increase (6.7%) in sugar content; a significant increase in anthocyanins (22.2%) and tannins (27.5%); and a strong reduction in yield (53.2%) when compared with the non-stressed classes. The results of this study may help to understand and quantify how spatial variability is naturally distributed and its effect on grape and wine parameters.