Wine quality and berry size: a case study with Tempranillo Tinto progenies

Small berry size is normally associated with quality wine production. However, the contribution of grapevine variety and environment to sensory quality has not been well established. In this study, genotypes from two intra-specific hybrid populations were categorized by size according to berry diameter and weight: small (< 13.5 mm, <1.5 g), and large (>16 mm, >2 g). Chemical and sensory attributes of wines produced in two consecutive vintages (2017 and 2018) from each size category were characterized. Perceived intrinsic wine quality was judged by 20 wine professionals.

Wines obtained from small berry genotypes consistently displayed higher proportions of phenolic compounds and deeper color and were judged higher in quality regardless of genetic background and vintage. Perceived quality was positively correlated with anthocyanin and phenolic content. Wines presented high sensory variability in both vintages. Small berry size genotypes produced sweeter, fruitier wines with greater astringency; whereas wines from larger berries were perceived as more alcoholic and with lower positive aroma intensities. Berry size influenced color and phenolic compounds more than genotype or environment.

Small berry-size genotypes were related to high quality judgements in both years, thus providing a predictor of wine categories, which could be used to meet different market demands. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.