Published in Scientific Bulletin. Series F. Biotechnologies, Vol. XXIX, Issue 2
Written by Bogdan BOCĂNEALĂ, Oana Emilia CONSTANTIN, Nicoleta STĂNCIUC, Iuliana APRODU, Gabriela RÂPEANU
The ripening process of Fetească Neagră grapes is a critical determinant of wine quality, particularly in regions with varying climatic conditions. This study evaluates the technological and phenolic maturity of Fetească Neagră grapes over three consecutive years (2021-2023) in the Terasele Dunării wine-growing region. The analysis focused on sugar accumulation, total acidity, pH, nitrogen availability, anthocyanin content, and the Total Polyphenol Index (TPI), alongside the implications of different harvest strategies and maceration techniques.The results indicate significant variations among the three vintages, largely driven by climatic factors. 2021 presented favourable conditions, allowing for extended ripening and balanced phenolic development, while 2022 exhibited an accelerated maturation due to water deficits, necessitating early harvests. 2023, marked by extreme drought, led to a compressed ripening window and lower anthocyanin accumulation, influencing wine color stability and requiring an advanced maceration strategy. Additionally, nitrogen availability fluctuated significantly between years, potentially affecting fermentation dynamics and having multiple technological and sensory implications. These findings underscore the importance of adaptive harvesting decisions and enological interventions in maintaining wine quality under varying climatic conditions. The study highlights the need for real-time monitoring of grape maturation and the application of targeted maceration techniques to optimize phenolic extraction and balance wine composition.
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